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5 big-name PGA Tour pros chasing final Masters spot

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Rickie Fowler at the Valero Texas Open.Getty Images

There’s one open spot left at Augusta National.

And one chance left to snag it.

At the conclusion of last week’s Houston Open, Augusta National officially invited the winner (Gary Woodland) as well as four pros who’d cemented their spots inside the OWGR top 50 (Nicolai Hojgaard, Jake Knapp, Matt McCarty, Daniel Berger) before the final deadline. (Here’s hoping they got overnight delivery on some green envelopes from Augusta. Plus maybe an email confirmation?)

Because Augusta invites every PGA Tour winner from a full-field event since last year’s Masters, this week’s Valero Texas Open includes the last-chance exemption. Should someone already exempt win this week — Tommy Fleetwood, say, or Ludvig Aberg, two pre-tournament favorites — that spot evaporates. But there are dozens of talented pros just four great rounds from earning the chance to play four more great rounds.

Here are five of those players.

1. Rickie Fowler

Fowler bogeyed two of his first four holes at TPC San Antonio, only steepening his climb — but as I type these words has bounced back with a four-under back nine to open in two-under 70. Fowler has quietly put together a very consistent stretch of golf dating back to last summer. Before he missed last week’s cut he’d logged six top-20s in eight starts. DataGolf still has him as the world’s 25th-ranked golfer, the highest of any player not in the Masters field. But the OWGR rewards very high finishes over consistency, and despite his run of strong play, Fowler doesn’t have a top five since 2024, so he’s No. 65 in the OWGR and on the outside looking in. Fowler has somehow played just one of the last five Masters tournaments; he’s hunting his final chance to make that two in six.

2. Will Zalatoris

Zalatoris just made eight birdies in an opening round of five-under 67 and sits just a shot off the lead. We’re only a quarter of the way through, so it’s early for anything besides what-ifs and wild speculation, but the golf world would be thrilled to see Zalatoris stamp his comeback with a victory and a major berth.

Zalatoris didn’t tee it up on the PGA Tour between the PGA Championship last May to this January’s American Express, where he finished T18. He withdrew from the Cognizant shortly before his first-round tee time with an ankle injury — reportedly unrelated to his previous back procedures. He’s No. 299 in the OWGR, so this would come from left field. What a story it would be.

3. Michael Thorbjornsen

Thorbjornsen looked like he might lock up his spot in the OWGR top 50 via the Players Championship, where he played his way into the final pairing but struggled to a Sunday 77 that sent him plummeting to T22. He also stalled out with a Sunday 72 at the Houston Open, leaving him T14 — and No. 54 in the OWGR.

Nobody’s doubting Thorbjornsen’s tremendous talent; he’s ascendant, he seems like he’ll be a central figure on the PGA Tour for years to come and it seems extremely likely that he’ll be at next year’s Masters. He just might not squeak into this one.

4. Tony Finau

As pointed out by Jeff Eisenband below, Tony Finau is on the verge of ending his streak of major championships played at 33. Finau is No. 107 in the OWGR, though he’s shown flashes of strong form with three top-20s in seven starts in 2026. It feels like there are more chapters of Finau’s major-championship story left to write; check out those nine top-10s from 2018-2021! That next rally could start this week.

Tony Finau has played in 33 straight major championships. He's played in every @TheMasters since 2018. He hasn't missed a major start since the 2017 U.S. Open.

His final shot at extending that streak to 34 consecutive majors requires him to win this week's @valerotxopen. pic.twitter.com/7KhcK7FDgO

— Jeff Eisenband (@JeffEisenband) April 1, 2026

5. Keith Mitchell

Cashmere Keith is another pro in relatively strong form — he’s made 12 cuts in a row, including five top-20s — but although he’s No. 44 in DataGolf’s ranking he’s just No. 104 in the OWGR. There’s plenty of good news with Mitchell’s game; he’s been consistently excellent off the tee, his iron play has been strong, he’s top 20 on Tour from tee to green. If he finds a hot putter this week, who knows? Mitchell could be in his third career Masters.

Otherwise these five will look to next year. Plenty of others will, too.

The post 5 big-name PGA Tour pros chasing final Masters spot appeared first on Golf.

Jason Kelce, Travis Kelce share personalized Masters Champions Dinner menus full of nostalgia

The dynamic duo of Jason Kelce and Travis Kelce have formed an elite sports media partnership with their widely-popular “New Heights” podcast.

However, the NFL brothers’ success is largely due to their ability to expand beyond football, and that’s become apparent ahead of golf’s upcoming major, the 2026 Masters tournament.

MORE: Pat McAfee reveals Augusta decision about filming ESPN show at 2026 Masters

Reigning Masters winner Rory McIlroy recently announced his Champions Dinner for the iconic golf tournament. Meanwhile, the Kelce brothers released their own version of the Masters Champions Dinner ahead of this year’s event.

Rate the Kelce brothers’ Masters Champions Dinner menus pic.twitter.com/uD3MnU4avQ

— New Heights (@newheightshow) April 2, 2026

The Super Bowl champion-winning brothers took a page out of the Masters playbook by releasing their own graphic with a similar appearance to what Augusta posted with McIlroy’s announcement.

Both Kelce brothers have become massive stars beyond the gridiron, especially due to the success of “New Heights.” Their huge podcast has amassed millions of followers on social media in just a few short years, making it one of the best sports podcasts.

Meanwhile, Travis’ public relationship with pop star Taylor Swift has boosted his own popularity with music fans. The celebrity couple are set to get married in June during the NFL offseason.

MORE: ESPN has no clue how to use former NFL star Jason Kelce

Jason’s growing role at ESPN has certainly been an intriguing topic for the sports and entertainment network. The former Philadelphia Eagles center is even set to appear at this year’s Masters during the Par 3 Contest.

Travis Kelce and Jason Kelce talk during the American Century Celebrity Championship golf tournament.

Below are the fun and nostalgic menus that the Kelce brothers have created for their fictitious Masters Champions Dinner.

It’s clear that the NFL stars are very fond of their parents’ cooking from their childhood days back in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. Both Kelce’s also leaned into some of their favorite snacks from their younger days, including a shared love for key lime pie.

Jason Kelce’s Masters Champions Dinner menu

  • Mama Kelce’s Dinner Rolls
  • Ed Kelce’s Casserole
  • Fancy PB&J
  • Hamburger Helper
  • Beans & Weenies
  • Key Lime Pie
  • Dunkaroos

Travis Kelce’s Masters Champions Dinner menu

  • Mama Kelce’s Dinner Rolls
  • Georgio’s Pizza
  • Smashburger
  • Fried Chicken with Mac and Cheese
  • Key Lime Pie
  • Dairy Queen Ice Cream Cake

Ranking Masters menu items from most affordable to expensive

Every year, fans who visit Augusta National Golf Club expect amazing golf. However, the food is just as important. In fact, The Masters is famous for its low concession prices, which is very rare today. While most big sporting events charge high prices, Augusta keeps things simple and affordable.

As you walk down Magnolia Lane, the experience already feels special. Then, when you see the food boards, it really hits you. Sandwiches cost under $3, drinks are just $2, and snacks stay close to $1.50. Because of this, fans actually plan what they want to eat before they even arrive.

The 2026 menu, which was seen during the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, gives a good idea of what to expect. Most prices stayed the same, although a few items went up slightly. Still, nothing feels expensive. Instead, everything feels fair and simple.

MORE: Golf: 2025 PGA Tour Money List

1. Georgia Peach Ice Cream Sandwich and Premium Sandwiches – $3.00

This is the highest price on the menu, yet it still feels cheap. The Georgia Peach Ice Cream Sandwich stands out because it brings a local flavor. At the same time, it is one of the few sweet options at this price.

Along with that, three sandwiches share this top spot. The Chicken Salad on Honey Wheat is a solid choice, while the Masters Club remains a fan favorite. Meanwhile, the Ham and Cheese on Rye keeps things simple. All of these are filling, and more importantly, they taste good. So even at $3, they feel like a great deal.

2. Muffin – $2.50

The muffin is one of the few items that saw a price increase. It used to be cheaper, but now it costs $2.50. Even so, it is still affordable and works well as a breakfast option. Because of that, many fans grab one early in the day. Interestingly, even this small price change did not go unnoticed, which shows how closely fans follow the menu.

3. Drinks Section – $2.00

All drinks cost the same, which makes things easy. You can choose from bottled water, cola, diet cola, lemon-lime soda, lemonade, sports drinks, and fresh coffee. Since nothing costs more than $2, staying refreshed is simple. Compared to other events, this feels like a huge win for fans.

MORE: Golf: Top 20 players with most PGA Tour wins

4. Candy and Georgia Peach Caramel Popcorn – $2.00

Candy prices went up slightly this year, increasing by 50 cents. However, it is still affordable and easy to carry around. On the other hand, the Georgia Peach Caramel Popcorn adds a local twist. It is sweet, crunchy, and perfect for snacking while walking the course.

5. Classic Snacks – $1.50

This section offers some of the best value on the menu. You can get chips, either plain or BBQ, which are always popular. In addition, Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a big hit, especially with coffee, while Oatmeal Raisin Cookies give another option.

Most importantly, this section includes the famous Egg Salad and Pimento Cheese sandwiches. These are true Masters staples, and fans talk about them every year. Because they cost just $1.50, they really define the Augusta experience.

6. Banana – $1.25

The banana is the cheapest food item available. It is healthy, simple, and gives a quick energy boost. So, many fans grab one while moving between holes. It perfectly fits the Masters style, no fuss, just good value.

MORE: Top 10 PGA Tour scoring average leaders in 2025

7. Advil or Aleve – $0.75

This is the lowest-priced item overall. Even though it is not food, it still matters. Walking the course can be tiring, so having this option helps a lot. At just 75 cents, it shows how much Augusta cares about the fan experience.

Final thoughts

In the end, the Masters menu stays true to its tradition. Prices remain low, choices stay simple, and nothing feels overpriced. Fans may come for the golf, but the food clearly adds to the experience. From $3 sandwiches to a 75-cent relief option, everything feels fair, and that is what makes it so special.

Florida judge grants Tiger Woods’ specific request for help amid DUI fallout

While the golf world focuses on the annual Masters tournament in Augusta, Georgia, Tiger Woods might well be overseas.

One day after Woods announced he was seeking treatment for an unspecified health concern, the golfer was granted a request to travel outside the United States and enter a comprehensive inpatient treatment facility, according to court records cited by ESPN.

MORE: Tiger Woods breaks silence with major personal news after DUI arrest

Mark Schlabach reported April 1 that attorney Douglas Duncan made the motion to travel on behalf of Woods, citing his client’s urgent need for an “intensive, highly individualized and medically integrated program” and privacy from media and public scrutiny.

Martin County (Fla.) Court Judge Darren Steele granted the motion following a teleconference with Duncan and Assistant State Attorney Caroline Houston on April 1, according to the report.

MORE: Tiger Woods uninjured, but arrested for DUI after rollover crash in Florida

According to police reports, Woods attempted to pass a slower vehicle in Martin County on March 27. His SUV clipped the other car and flipped onto its side.

The crash resulted in the golfer being arrested for suspicion of DUI.

MORE: 2026 Masters broadcast schedule, times & channels revealed

On March 31, Woods made a revealing personal announcement.

“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” read the statement, which Woods posted to his X account. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.

“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”

Steele upheld the claim that Woods’ privacy necessitated the unusual step of allowing him to seek treatment abroad.

“Based upon the Defendant’s treating physician, the out of country treatment facility recommendation is based upon the Defendant’s complex clinical presentation and the urgent need for a level of care that cannot safely or effectively be done within the United States, as his privacy has been repeatedly compromised,” Duncan wrote in the motion, according to ESPN.

“Ongoing medical scrutiny and public exposure create significant barriers to his care and would result in setbacks and an inability to fully engage in treatment.”

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