Who’s in the Masters mix
Ten players who could be in contention this week
Ten players who could, should, might contend for the green jacket this week:
HENRIK STENSON
My favourite for his sense of humour alone. 2014 FedEx Cup winner could have been player of year. Big game, rounding into form.
ADAM SCOTT
Hard to go back-to-back at the Masters, but as long as the serene Aussie is holing putts with that broomstick, he’s as good a bet as anyone.
PHIL MICKELSON
Rain or shine, in good form or slumping, this place lights Mickelson’s game up. Ten topfive finishes here, three wins. Money.
JASON DAY
Might be the favourite if not for a nagging thumb problem. He says he’s pain-free now, and if so, he’s a major victory waiting to happen.
RORY MCILROY
That 2011 final-round meltdown is a distant memory. Two majors since then, he seems to have his game back. Finished with 65 in Houston last week.
JIMMY WALKER
Yes, he’s a Masters rookie, but he’s 35 and every time you look, he’s on a PGA Tour leaderboard. Steady, and ready.
SERGIO GARCIA
He and Lee Westwood ought to be an entry for Best Player Never To Have Won a Major. He beats himself up here, but he’s close.
LEE WESTWOOD
See above. His last four finishes at Augusta: 2, T-11, T-3, T-8. Time for him to finish the job with his 41st birthday approaching.
HARRIS ENGLISH
Only 24, but has the right game for this course. High and long, always sniffing around the lead, and not intimidated.
JUSTIN ROSE
U.S. Open champ has had shoulder problems, but sounds confident and ready. Has led the first round three times here.