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“A tradition unlike any other…”

The Masters Tournament at Augusta National (Augusta, GA) starts today. Played at one of the toughest courses in the world, the Masters – with its resplendently dressed crowds, subdued atmosphere and the famous green jacket awarded to the winners – is arguably the most prestigious golf tournament in the world.

Here’s the Inspector’s preview of the major players:

Dustin Johnson

The No. 1 ranked player in the world, Johnson was the heavy favorite heading into the tournament… until the recent news that he had injured his back falling down some stairs. It’s not the most bizarre injury in the history of sports, but as far as bad timing it’s up there. As of this writing, Johnson’s status for The Masters is unknown, which is a shame considering that he’s been the hottest golfer on the planet up until now. He has won the last three PGA Tour events and a win at Augusta would have made him the only other golfer besides Tiger Woods to win four straight tournaments.

Jordan Spieth

Spieth returns a year after his heartbreaking collapse at last year’s Masters. If you follow golf, you probably know the story by now: Spieth had a five stroke lead entering the back nine, but shot a quadruple-bogey 7 (including two shots into a nearby creek) on the 12th hole. Spieth, who won the event in 2015 had to put the green jacket on Danny Willett after his agonizing collapse.

The defeat still reverberates and it will surely be on Spieth’s – and everyone’s – mind, but it is also worth remembering that he is still one of the most talented all around golfers in the world. In his three Masters tournaments, he’s never finished lower than second. Don’t be surprised if he turns Augusta into his own personal redemption tour.

Rory McIlroy

Another great young player, McIlroy brings his own unique baggage to Augusta. He’s never won the Masters. No one disputes his talent and pedigree; if he wins, he will have completed the career grand slam at 27 and join exalted company. Will he let the pressure get to him?

Phil Mickelson

The longtime fan favorite and all-time great is not really considered a serious threat to win it all, but who knows? He is no doubt the emotional rooting choice of many fans and his galleries will probably end up being the most fun. Mickelson is 46, the same age as Jack NIcklaus when he won his sixth Masters at the now-legendary 1986 tournament.

Whither Tiger?

Arguably still the most famous name in golf, Tiger Woods will not be participating. His injuries and physical state make it likely that he will never reach the heights he once did, but it’s worth remembering the 20th anniversary of his masterful 1997 Masters, when he beat the field by 12 shots. We may never see anything like it again.

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