The azaleas are blooming, the crowds are buzzing, and the world's best golfers are descending on Augusta National. For any golf enthusiast, the Masters isn't just a tournament; it's an annual pilgrimage, a tradition steeped in history and prestige. And this year, catching all the drama is easier than ever.
For the 2026 Masters, running from Thursday, April 9th to Sunday, April 12th, we're seeing a significant expansion in how you can tune in, especially here in the US. It's a pretty exciting shift, honestly. Amazon Prime Video is joining the broadcast lineup for the very first time, which is a big deal. They'll be offering exclusive coverage of the early afternoon windows on Thursday and Friday, giving us a fresh perspective on those opening rounds. Think of it as getting an extra helping of Masters action right from the get-go.
This new addition means we're looking at a substantial increase in total coverage – at least 27 hours, a jump from the 18 hours we had in 2024. It’s a testament to how popular this event is and the desire to share every crucial putt and spectacular drive.
So, how does this break down across the channels? CBS, a longtime staple since 1956, will continue to bring us the coveted weekend rounds. ESPN, which has been covering the first two rounds since 2008, will again air Thursday and Friday's play. And then there's Paramount+, stepping in to offer the opening two hours of weekend coverage before CBS takes over – perfect for catching those crucial early moments on Saturday and Sunday.
For those who prefer to stream, the options are plentiful. Masters.com remains a fantastic free resource. You can watch featured groups, get live feeds of iconic spots like Amen Corner, and follow key holes. Plus, you get highlights and leaderboards. No subscription needed, which is always a win. It's also a great option for international viewers in countries without local broadcasters.
Amazon Prime Video, as mentioned, is the new kid on the block for US viewers. If you're already a Prime member, you're good to go for those exclusive early afternoon streams on Thursday and Friday. If not, there are monthly or annual membership options, and a 30-day free trial for new members is a nice perk.
ESPN and ESPN+ are also key players. ESPN will carry the main broadcast for the first two rounds, and if you have a cable package with ESPN, you can stream it via the ESPN app. ESPN+ offers even more – think additional featured groups and specific hole coverage. It's a solid choice if you're already invested in the ESPN ecosystem.
Paramount+ is your go-to for that early weekend action. While they've discontinued their free trial, it's still a valuable option, especially if you're a Walmart+ member, as it's included. And of course, CBS will be there for the main event on Saturday and Sunday, bringing that classic Masters broadcast feel.
Whether you're a die-hard fan who wants to soak in every moment or just want to catch the highlights of the green jacket ceremony, the 2026 Masters offers more ways than ever to stay connected to the action. It’s all about making sure you don’t miss a single swing from one of golf's most hallowed grounds.