In just over a week, the first Major of the year will start. The Masters is my favourite Major because of the history to this event and the fact that it is set up the exact same way every year. Augusta National is an amazing course and I love the play around Amen Corner. The field will be the strongest to date this year and picking a winner will be virtually impossible. But, I think it is time to take a chance and play armchair quarterback.

Trying to pick a winner for any sporting event is challenging enough; however, The Masters is doubly tough. The best golfers in the world are teeing it up next week and almost every player has a chance to win. However, players must be ready to perform off the first tee and for 71 holes after that; they do not want to peak to early; make no mistake – The Masters is a four day event.

My top three picks are based on gut feel and current stats. The first two are from the stats: Scottie Scheffler and Cameron Smith. These two players are the best in the world right now and are on a hot streak. The impressive play at The Players (Smith) and winning three tournaments in 2022 (Scheffler) have to make these two players the favourites. I think that one of these or both will be at the top of the leaderboard on Sunday.

My third pick is Dustin Johnson.  He is long hitting and his short game has greatly improved over the past two years. The greens at Augusta National are beyond challenging and his Achilles Heel in the past. However, Johnson has greatly improved his flat stick performance and I think that will be the critical factor to his success.

My dark horse is Rory McIlroy. I realize that this seems like an odd selection, but this might be the year he completes this career Major. McIlroy’s challenge lately is putting four rounds of good golf together. He seems to start strong, but wanes on moving day or the final round. McIlroy definitely has the skill to win the green jacket, however he needs to play solid golf from start to finish.

On a side note, I will be cheering for any Canadian in the field…..it is a must!

There you have it. There are so many great players in this year’s field that anyone has a chance. I do not know about you, but I will be watching as much as possible and rooting on for my picks. Regardless of who wins, it is going to a “tradition like no other”!

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!