Masters 2026 Prize Money: Winner Takes Record $3.6 Million

Masters 2026 Prize Money: Winner Takes Record $3.6 Million...

The 2026 Masters Tournament winner will earn a record $3.6 million, up from $3.24 million in 2025, as Augusta National announced increased prize money ahead of Sunday's final round. The total purse rose to $20 million, reinforcing the Masters' status as one of golf's most lucrative events.

This year's payout is trending as fans speculate whether Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, or a dark horse contender will claim the historic payday. The winner's share exceeds the entire purse of some PGA Tour events, highlighting golf's growing financial stakes.

Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley confirmed the increases Thursday, citing the club's commitment to "recognizing the game's top competitors." Second place earns $2.16 million, while even the 50th finisher takes home $37,800. The payout structure mirrors 2025's 18% winner's share formula.

Golf analysts note the Masters prize bump follows similar increases at the U.S. Open ($4.3 million winner's share in 2025) and PGA Championship ($3.9 million). The tournament's limited field of 89 players means higher per-player payouts than typical tour stops.

Sunday's winner will also receive the iconic green jacket and lifetime Masters eligibility. The prize money discussion gained traction Friday after Scheffler's second-round 65 positioned him as the betting favorite. ESPN reported a 210% spike in "Masters prize money" searches during his back-nine charge.

Amateur competitors remain ineligible for cash prizes, with any top-50 finishers forfeiting their earnings to professional competitors. This tradition continues despite recent debates about amateur compensation in elite tournaments.

The Masters concludes Sunday afternoon at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. CBS will broadcast the final round starting at 2 p.m. ET, when the record payout will be decided.