The final round of the Masters Tournament delivered high drama at Augusta National, with a tightly packed leaderboard and record-breaking prize money adding even more intensity to Sunday’s action.
Rory McIlroy Falters as Leaderboard Shifts
Entering Sunday tied for the lead at 11-under, Rory McIlroy appeared poised to capture another green jacket. However, early mistakes, including a costly double bogey on Hole No. 4 and a bogey on No. 6, derailed his momentum and dropped him out of the top spot.
Meanwhile, Justin Rose capitalized on his strong “Moving Day” performance, surging into the lead as he chased another Masters title. Close behind, Scottie Scheffler stayed firmly in contention after a solid front nine, keeping pressure on the leaders.
Cameron Young, who started the day tied with McIlroy, also remained part of the crowded race at the top.
Masters 2026 Purse Reaches Record $22.5 Million
The 2026 Masters purse has reached a record $22.5 million, an increase of $1.5 million from the previous year. This significant boost reflects the continued growth of prize money in professional golf’s premier events.
The winner of this year’s Masters will take home a staggering $4.5 million, marking a $300,000 increase from McIlroy’s $4.2 million payout as the 2025 champion.
Full Masters 2026 Prize Money Breakdown
Here’s a look at the top payouts from the 2026 Masters:
- 1st place: $4,500,000
- 2nd place: $2,430,000
- 3rd place: $1,530,000
- 4th place: $1,080,000
- 5th place: $900,000
- 10th place: $607,500
- 20th place: $292,500
- 30th place: $153,000
- 40th place: $96,750
- 50th place: $56,700
Additionally, all players who missed the cut still receive $25,000, ensuring every participant earns a share of the purse.
Rising Masters Winner Payouts Over the Years
- 2020: $1.8 million (Dustin Johnson)
- 2021: $2.07 million (Hideki Matsuyama)
- 2022: $2.7 million (Scottie Scheffler)
- 2023: $3.24 million (Jon Rahm)
- 2024: $3.6 million (Scottie Scheffler)
- 2025: $4.2 million (Rory McIlroy)
- 2026: $4.5 million (winner)
Tight Finish Expected at Augusta National
With multiple players within striking distance, the final round of the 2026 Masters is shaping up for a thrilling finish. Every shot carries massive implications, not only for the iconic green jacket but also for millions of dollars in prize money.
As the leaderboard continues to shift, fans can expect a dramatic conclusion at Augusta National, where history and a record payday await the champion.