1. Scottie Scheffler
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Age: 27
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Current World Ranking: 1
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Recent Form: Scheffler has been in dominant form over the past couple of seasons, winning multiple titles and maintaining his position as the World No. 1.
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Strengths: Consistency, elite ball-striking, and clutch putting. His ability to stay calm under pressure makes him a top contender.
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Reason for being a First-Time Winner: With his elite all-around game and prior Masters success (top 10 finishes), he’s poised to secure his first Masters victory.
2. Jon Rahm
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Age: 29
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Current World Ranking: 2
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Recent Form: Rahm has consistently been at the top of his game, with victories on various tours. His strong mental game and ability to close out tournaments make him dangerous.
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Strengths: Powerful driving, short game, and exceptional putting.
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Reason for being a First-Time Winner: Rahm has finished near the top in previous Masters tournaments, and with his form, this could be his breakthrough year.
3. Rory McIlroy
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Age: 34
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Current World Ranking: 3
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Recent Form: McIlroy has been close to a Masters win for years but has yet to secure his green jacket. He’s been consistent with his game and is determined to complete the career Grand Slam.
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Strengths: Distance off the tee, strong approach shots, and a resilient mindset.
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Reason for being a First-Time Winner: His motivation to secure the final leg of the Grand Slam, combined with his excellent skill set, makes him a favorite for his first Masters victory.
4. Cameron Smith
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Age: 30
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Current World Ranking: 4
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Recent Form: Smith has been one of the most consistent and dangerous players in recent years, with major victories under his belt.
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Strengths: Immaculate short game, outstanding wedge play, and putting.
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Reason for being a First-Time Winner: Smith's precise and tactical game could suit Augusta perfectly, making him a prime candidate for a breakthrough win.
5. Jordan Spieth
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Age: 31
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Current World Ranking: 12
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Recent Form: Spieth’s experience at Augusta (including a win in 2015) and his return to form in recent years make him a serious contender.
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Strengths: Excellent short game, putting, and a strong mental game.
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Reason for being a First-Time Winner: Though Spieth has a green jacket already, his form and approach could lead to another win, but as a reassertion of his elite status at Augusta.
6. Patrick Cantlay
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Age: 31
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Current World Ranking: 4
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Recent Form: Cantlay has steadily been near the top in big tournaments, with a powerful game and an ability to stay calm under pressure.
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Strengths: Strong tee-to-green play and putting.
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Reason for being a First-Time Winner: Cantlay's ability to avoid mistakes and stay composed in high-pressure situations makes him a strong candidate for his first major win at Augusta.
7. Collin Morikawa
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Age: 27
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Current World Ranking: 5
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Recent Form: Morikawa’s precision with irons and his elite ball striking make him a favorite on the Augusta layout.
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Strengths: Iron play, approach shots, and putting.
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Reason for being a First-Time Winner: Morikawa has shown promise in major championships, and his skills around Augusta could make him the next big star in golf.
8. Will Zalatoris
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Age: 27
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Current World Ranking: 7
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Recent Form: Zalatoris has shown a lot of promise in recent Masters tournaments and major events. His ball-striking and steady play make him a threat.
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Strengths: Tee-to-green play, approach shots, and putting.
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Reason for being a First-Time Winner: With an already impressive track record at Augusta, Zalatoris could finally get over the hump and secure his first major victory.
9. Max Homa
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Age: 33
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Current World Ranking: 9
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Recent Form: Homa’s rise to the top has been rapid, with multiple wins in recent years. His well-rounded game and confidence make him a solid contender.
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Strengths: Ball striking, putting, and approach play.
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Reason for being a First-Time Winner: Homa’s current trajectory and confidence could put him in the mix for his first major title, with Augusta offering him the perfect stage for a breakthrough.
10. Sungjae Im
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Age: 25
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Current World Ranking: 15
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Recent Form: Im has been one of the most consistent players on the PGA Tour in recent years, with top finishes in big events.
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Strengths: Consistency, solid ball-striking, and strong putting.
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Reason for being a First-Time Winner: Im’s calm demeanor and ability to handle pressure on big stages make him a potential first-time winner at Augusta.