The Masters 2025 Tournament is finally here, and the golf world is buzzing with anticipation. From Rory McIlroy’s quest for the career Grand Slam to Scottie Scheffler’s bid for a historic three-peat, the first major of the year promises drama, tradition, and unforgettable moments. Here’s everything you need to know about Round 1, including how to watch, tee times, and the key players to follow.
How to Watch Masters 2025 Round 1: TV & Streaming Details
The first round kicks off at 7:30 a.m. ET on Thursday, April 10, with streaming coverage beginning on ESPN+, Paramount+, and Masters.com. ESPN’s live TV broadcast starts at 3 p.m. ET, running until 7:30 p.m. ET.
Streaming options include:
- Featured Groups: Follow marquee pairings like McIlroy/Åberg/Bhatia (1:12 p.m. ET) and Scheffler/Thomas/Ballester (10:15 a.m. ET).
- Amen Corner Live: Tune into holes 11, 12, and 13 from 10:45 a.m. ET.
- Masters App: Track real-time scoring and “Every Shot, Every Hole” coverage.
For international viewers, BBC Sport (UK) and Golf Channel/NBC Sports (U.S.) offer additional analysis and live updates.
Top Storylines for Round 1
1. Rory McIlroy’s Career Grand Slam Quest
McIlroy arrives at Augusta in career-best form, fresh off wins at Pebble Beach and The Players Championship. This marks his 11th attempt to complete the Grand Slam, a feat achieved only by legends like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus. McIlroy credits his recent success to a more disciplined approach, inspired by Scheffler’s game, and a switch to a higher-spin golf ball for better control on Augusta’s tricky greens.
Key stat: McIlroy has seven top-10 finishes at the Masters but hasn’t broken 70 in his opening round since 2018.
2. Scottie Scheffler’s Historic Three-Peat Bid
Scheffler, the defending champion and world No. 1, aims to join Nicklaus, Faldo, and Woods as the only players to win back-to-back Masters. Despite a slow start to 2025 due to a hand injury (sustained while making ravioli on Christmas Day), he’s regained momentum with a T2 finish in Houston. His “flighted” iron shots and course management make him a perennial threat.
Fun fact: Scheffler’s champions dinner menu included cowboy ribeye and chili, a nod to his Texas roots.
3. LIV Golf’s Contingent
Jon Rahm, the 2023 Masters winner, leads LIV Golf’s charge. Though his recent form is a mystery, Rahm’s power and course knowledge could surprise. Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka, both major winners, also lurk as dark horses.
Tee Times: Key Pairings to Watch
- 7:40 a.m. ET: Davis Riley, Patton Kizzire
- 9:14 a.m. ET: Brian Harman, Stephan Jaeger
- 10:15 a.m. ET: Scottie Scheffler, Justin Thomas, Jose Luis Ballester (A)
- 1:12 p.m. ET: Rory McIlroy, Ludvig Åberg, Akshay Bhatia
Sleeper group: Ludvig Åberg, last year’s runner-up, tees off with McIlroy. The 25-year-old Swede won the Genesis Invitational in February but has missed two cuts since.
Weather & Course Conditions
Augusta National is pristine despite Hurricane Helene’s damage in 2024. Sunny skies and mild winds (8-12 mph) are forecast for Thursday, favoring low scores. However, the reshaped 11th and 15th holes add new challenges.
Expert Predictions & Betting Tips
- Scottie Scheffler (5/1): The safe pick, with two wins in three years at Augusta.
- Rory McIlroy (6/1): High risk, high reward for Grand Slam seekers.
- Dark horse: Xander Schauffele (18/1), a proven major performer with four Masters top 10s.
Pro tip: Avoid first-timers—no debutant has won since 1979.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re tuning in for McIlroy’s historic chase, Scheffler’s dominance, or the beauty of Augusta’s azaleas, Round 1 sets the stage for a weekend of unforgettable golf. Stay glued to ESPN’s coverage or follow our live blog for real-time updates.