Masters Tournament 2025: Cut Line Drama Unfolds at Augusta National

AUGUSTA, Ga. — The 2025 Masters Tournament began Thursday at Augusta National Golf Club, with 95 golfers eager for a coveted green jacket. As the tournament unfolds, only the top 50 players, including ties, will advance to the weekend rounds.

The projected cut line as of Friday morning is at 2-over par, fluctuating with early round results. As it stands, a total of 50 golfers are expected to qualify for the final two days of play. Notable past champions like Jon Rahm, Phil Mickelson, and Adam Scott are currently in danger of missing the cut, keeping the stakes high for competitors.

The cut line has changed throughout the first two rounds. Initially, it started at 1-over after Round 1, but as play progresses, it has moved to 2-over. As of noon on Friday, 50 golfers are either below the projected cut line or just on the edge, making for a tight competition.

The first round finished with Justin Rose leading the field, shooting a stellar round that positioned him well for advancing. Fellow competitors Bryson DeChambeau and Tony Finau also found themselves in the mix as the second round commenced. However, the format of the Masters has made it clear that even a single bad hole could mean the end of their tournament.

“The cut is always brutal,” said former Masters champion Phil Mickelson. “You just never know how it’s going to play out until the last putt drops.”

Golf legend Tiger Woods, who previously captured five green jackets, is absent this year due to recent surgery. Woods announced on social media that he was ready for the Masters but later revealed it was an April Fools’ joke.

The Masters has a long history of challenging cut lines, with the rules periodically evolving since its inception in 1957. The current format, implemented in 2020, requires the lowest 50 scores and ties to progress, a significant shift from previous years.

As play continues at Augusta, every stroke counts for those hovering around the cut line. For players like Rory McIlroy and Billy Horschel, the pressure is palpable as they fight to secure their spots for weekend play. McIlroy, who is seeking his first Masters win, remains optimistic despite the uphill battle ahead.

“It’s a marathon, not a sprint,” said McIlroy. “I’ve got my sights set on the weekend, and anything can happen.”

With the excitement of the Masters Tournament continuing, fans and golfers alike are on the edge of their seats as the cut line implications evolve with each hole. Live updates are available for spectators eager to follow the action from Augusta.