Masters Players: The Best Golfers Yet to Win Green Jacket

AUGUSTA, Ga. — As the Masters Tournament approaches, conversations often center on prominent golfers seeking the elusive green jacket. Historically, some elite players have made significant marks on the Masters leaderboard without ever claiming victory. This year, seven such players, including former champions and rising stars, are eyeing their first win at Augusta National.

Among the most notable is Rory McIlroy, currently ranked No. 2 in the world and seeking to complete the career grand slam. McIlroy has come agonizingly close on multiple occasions, including a dramatic collapse in 2011 when he led after the third round but finished with an 80, falling to Charl Schwartzel. He enters this year’s tournament with renewed confidence after winning twice earlier this season.

Ernie Els, known as “The Big Easy,” has twice placed second at the Masters but has never donned the green jacket despite a successful career that includes four major championships. Els’ close finishes came in 2000 and 2004, where he fell just short, showcasing a pattern of near misses among elite players.

Greg Norman, who dominated the 1980s and 90s, also stands out with his three runner-up finishes. Norman’s best chance came in 1996 when he held a six-shot lead entering the final round but faltered, closing with a 78 while Nick Faldo took the title.

Other notable names include Lee Trevino, who, despite winning six majors, never found success at Augusta, finishing no better than tied for 10th. Trevino’s unique shot shape and historical struggles with Augusta’s greens and terrain led to his notable absence in the final rankings.

Another modern contender is Xander Schauffele, who has established himself as a consistent performer at the Masters but has yet to break through for a win. Finishing runner-up in 2019 marked his peak performance but has often found himself just outside the leading pack, raising questions about whether this is his year.

Will Zalatoris, considered a rising star, has never finished outside the top 10 in three Masters appearances but faces increasing pressure to secure a title as he attempts to navigate the challenges at Augusta.

Despite the historical context, each player in this elite group brings unique strengths to the game, raising the stakes at this year’s Masters. With McIlroy at the forefront, the question remains: which of these greats will finally claim the elusive and prestigious green jacket?