5 most anticipated match-ups of the 2018 Masters
By Kyle Walton
With one of the most exciting fields in recent memory, what pairings could be poised to make instant memories at this year’s Masters from Augusta?
April is nearly here. Azaleas are being groomed, the smell of pimento lingers in the air, and golf fans around the world are answering their phones with “Hello Friends.” Masters season is officially upon us and we may be looking at the most exciting, and intriguing, field at Augusta in many years.
The world of golf has felt a sense of rejuvenation over the past month with the return of Tiger Woods. During the final round of the Valspar Championship, Woods made a run at the top while TV ratings reached their highest point for a non-major tournament since 2013. Additionally, that final round was the most watched non-Masters round since the 2015 PGA Championship.
Simply stated, the Masters can truly be described as an event unlike any other. Despite it being the most viewed golfing event every year, in 2017 viewership dipped to its lowest since 2004 according to Sports Media Watch. While weather and digital streaming are common explanations for the significant dip, this year’s field is likely to turn things around at Augusta this April.
The return of Woods combined with steady veteran play and young, hungry contenders are making for a must-watch Masters. While there is a near-infinite amount of intriguing final pairings, there are a few select scenarios that fans are sure to be praying to the golf gods for come Sunday afternoon. While most, if not all, of those scenarios, could involve Woods, there’s plenty of other match-ups that should excite fans of the green jacket more than ever.