Previewing the Masters

The word surreal is often used to describe these pandemic times and it is appropriate for a 2020 golf calendar whose first major – the PGA – is normally the last, no Open at Royal St George’s and the Masters in November.

So we are denied the normal preview about the April Azaleas in full bloom, Gene Sarazen’s albatross and Amen Corner.

It’s a strange tourney when one of the bright young things of the US PGA Victor Novlund will not be invited there but Fred Couples will.

The smart money – and mine – is on Jon Rahm but the real question is whether Bryson de Chambeau will take the Augusta course apart.  I think not. He may drive 450 yards but he has still to chip and putt on those glassy greens.

Also wet weather is forecast which would result in heavier, less bouncy ground. Justin Thomas is as accurate as any from tee to green but I’m looking at each ways at juicier prices like Tony Finau, Webb Simpson, Cameron Champ and Patrick Reed.

Some things never change and Rory McIlroy gets the lion’s share of the publicity though it’s six years now since he won a Major.

I prefer Tyrell Hatton who has a fine all round game and is an excellent putter.