A Tradition Unlike Any Other - 2017 Masters Preview
The 2017 Masters is set to begin on Thursday and while a familiar face and past champion Tiger Woods will not be joining the field this year, the likes of Jordan Speith, Rickie Fowler, Rory Mcilroy, Dustin Johnson, and defending champion Danny Willet highlight a star studded event. No surprise with the success Dustin Johnson (+550) has had this year, that he would be the overwhelming favorite to be slipping on the green jacket this Sunday. Johnson claimed the #1 world ranking and looks to continue his run at a fourth tour win this season. Jordan Spieth (+700) has not had the same success this season as DJ, however he still remains a legit threat to contend in Augusta this week. Spieth will be looking to redeem himself from a collapse last year at Amen Corner, he now has something to prove this year at Augusta National.
Yes, there is no surprise Spieth and Johnson come in as heavy favorites for the Masters, however many top ranked golfers expect to be in contention come Sunday. Rickie Fowler (+1800) has had a good start to the season so far through seven events, claiming one win at the Honda Classic, and finishing top 5 in 3 others. Rory Mcilroy (+850) looks for his 3rd major championship, and also looks to improve on his best finish at Augusta in 2015 where he finished 4th. One name no one seems to be talking about too much due to recent family matters is Jason Day (+2000). Recently Day had to withdrawal from the World Golf Classic-Mexico due to an illness. There is no doubt Day would love to win at Augusta after his mother was told she has 12 months to live due to lung cancer. Initially Day was unsure if he would compete due to the circumstances, but all is well for the time being for the once #1 world ranked player.
Will Danny Willet (+11000) go back to back this year and claim another Masters Championship? Will Spieth get his redemption after last year's collapse? Or will Johnson continue his dominance and run away from the field? Masters week is in full effect and with the weather in question as far as wind and overall conditions, it will take a lot of grinding this week to become the next champion at Augusta National.