Masters Tournament Purse Hits Record $20 Million In 2026
The Masters Tournament announced a record $20 million purse for 2026, up from $18 million last year, as golf's premier event continues to raise the stakes. The winner at Augusta National will take home $3.6 million, the largest single payout in tournament history.
This year's purse increase reflects the growing financial power of professional golf amid rising TV rights deals and sponsorships. The Masters, which begins Thursday, remains the most prestigious major championship, drawing top players like defending champion Scottie Scheffler and rising star Ludvig Ã…berg.
Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley confirmed the purse bump Tuesday during the tournament's annual press conference. "We want to properly recognize the world's best golfers," Ridley said. The 2026 payout marks a 67% increase from just five years ago.
Fans and analysts are buzzing about the financial milestone as players arrive in Georgia. The purse discussion is trending nationwide as casual viewers grasp the staggering economics behind the sport's iconic event. Ticket resale prices have also hit record highs, with some practice round passes exceeding $1,000.
The Masters continues outpacing other majors in prestige if not purse size. Last year's U.S. Open offered a $21.5 million prize pool, while the PGA Championship reached $17.5 million. However, the green jacket and Augusta's hallowed grounds maintain unmatched allure.
This year's field features 89 competitors, including 16 first-time participants. With perfect spring weather forecast and no LIV Golf players banned, anticipation is building for what could be the most-watched Masters in a decade. ESPN and CBS will broadcast the action through Sunday's final round.
