Masters Tournament Purse Hits Record $20 Million For 2026

The Masters Tournament announced today that its total purse for 2026 will reach $20 million, setting a new record for the prestigious golf event. The winner will take home $3.6 million, up from $3.24 million in 2025, as organizers continue raising stakes in professional golf's major championships.

Augusta National Golf Club confirmed the purse increase during its annual press conference ahead of this year's tournament. The move comes as LIV Golf's emergence has pressured traditional tours to boost prize money. Last year's Masters saw Jon Rahm claim the $3.24 million top prize from an $18 million purse.

Golf fans are closely tracking purse sizes this week as players arrive in Augusta, Georgia for practice rounds. The Masters remains the only major where amateurs can compete alongside professionals, though they aren't eligible for prize money. Ticket holders and TV viewers will see whether the increased purse affects competition intensity when play begins Thursday.

Prize money at the four majors has climbed steadily since 2019, when Tiger Woods' Masters victory earned him $2.07 million. The PGA Championship currently offers golf's richest major purse at $25 million, while the U.S. Open and British Open trails slightly behind. All four events have increased payouts significantly since LIV Golf began offering $25 million purses for its 54-hole tournaments.

Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley emphasized that the purse growth reflects the tournament's commitment to players. The club also announced new fan amenities including expanded concession options and additional restrooms around the course. Practice rounds begin Monday ahead of Thursday's opening round at the iconic Georgia course.