A supercomputer analysis has projected Bryson DeChambeau as the likely winner of the 2026 Masters Tournament, potentially handing the Green Jacket to his rival Rory McIlroy, who won the event in 2025. The prediction, based on recent form, rankings, and past Augusta performances, gives DeChambeau a 33.1% chance of victory, though bookmakers currently favor other contenders.
Meanwhile, defending champion Rory McIlroy has addressed concerns about his physical readiness ahead of this year's Masters. After withdrawing from the Arnold Palmer Invitational due to a recurring lower back injury, McIlroy has since recovered and is reportedly in top form. ESPN's Marty Smith observed McIlroy during practice, noting no physical limitations and a strong mental edge following his 2025 victory. McIlroy expressed a newfound sense of belonging at Augusta, which he described as a cherished feeling.
The 2026 prediction comes amid a long-standing rivalry between McIlroy and DeChambeau, which intensified after DeChambeau's move to LIV Golf. The two were paired together in the final round of the 2025 Masters, where McIlroy secured his first major win in a decade. DeChambeau's best Masters finish to date is fifth place in 2025, and the supercomputer's model suggests he could improve on that performance in 2026.