2021 Masters: Top 10 power rankings for Augusta National
If it feels like the 2021 Masters arrived quickly, well, it obviously did.
The pandemic pushed back the 2020 Masters to a unique November date where Dustin Johnson set the tournament 72-hole scoring record of 268 to lap the field by five.
Conditions were understandably cool and soft, at least by Augusta National Golf Club standards. Patrons weren’t permitted, either, unless you possessed a green jacket.
A limited amount of patrons will be permitted into ANGC this year. The par-3 tournament is canceled once again.
At least the tournament is back to its annual position on the calendar ushering in spring for the Northern Hemisphere.
As always, a delightful field is assembled in Augusta, Georgia for the tournament’s 85th edition. There are 89 players vying to be among the top 50 and ties to make the 36-hole cut this week. The 10-shot rule was abandoned for good starting in 2020, so top-50’s the way to go.
Recently sidelined Brooks Koepka is making his first start since February. That makes 2019 Masters champion Tiger Woods the only notable absence due to injury.
Rickie Fowler did not qualify, snapping his major championship appearance streak of 42. Tip of the (fluorescent orange) cap for that feat.
Saturday’s Augusta National Women’s Amateur and Sunday’s Drive, Chip and Putt gave us a glimpse into what already appears to be a fairly firm and fast course.
It was relatively cool in Augusta over the weekend, but it’s warming up for Masters week. The forecast looks warm (60s-80s) with dry conditions for the practice rounds. Storms could pop up Thursday-Saturday. The wind doesn’t look to be a big factor though it could steadily get into the low double digits miles per hour. That can certainly make a difference at a venue that’s tough to judge the gusts.
A bit of a softer and shaggier ANGC was in play in November. That was to be expected given the timing, and Dustin Johnson took advantage to set the tournament scoring record of 20-under par.
Conditions should be firmer and faster this time around like the guys and gals in green would prefer it.
In these circumstances, a sample of good stats to watch include strokes gained approach, par-5 scoring and three-putt avoidance.
It’s OK to make bogeys because birdie chances are out there. Things get hairy when doubles and triples enter the conversation. We all know those are out there, too.
The course measures to 7,475 yards for a par 72.
The major championship season is upon us. Here’s a look at 10 with the best chance to get it done: