AUGUSTA, Ga. – Every year at the Masters, a few players have a different kind of experience, they’re not just competing on one of golf’s biggest stages, they’re playing somewhere that feels like home.
Augusta, Georgia, is one of the most famous courses in the world, but for players with ties to the state, it means even more. Whether they grew up there, went to school there, or live there now, this tournament is personal.
The 2026 Masters includes several players with Georgia connections: Brian Harman, Russell Henley, Harris English, Sepp Straka, Bubba Watson, Zach Johnson, Patrick Reed, Mason Howell, and Andrew Novak.
Brian Harman, a Savannah native and former University of Georgia golfer, is one of the most recognizable Georgia players in the field. Russell Henley, from Macon, also played at UGA and has become one of the more consistent players on tour.
Harris English, another former Bulldog from Thomasville, continues that strong University of Georgia presence at Augusta. Patrick Reed also has a Georgia connection, having played college golf at the University of Georgia early in his career.
Sepp Straka represents the state through his time playing at UGA, while Andrew Novak adds another connection to the Southeast residing in St. Simons Island as a professional comfortable in these conditions.
Bubba Watson, a two-time Masters champion, has long been associated with Georgia and lives in the area, making Augusta a familiar setting for him. Zach Johnson, another Masters champion, is also connected to the state as a resident of St. Simons Island, a well-known hub for professional golfers.
One of the most interesting names in the field is Mason Howell. He recently won the 2025 U.S. Amateur Championship that put him on the national radar. He is committed to play college golf at the University of Georgia starting in the Fall of 2026. Getting the chance to play at Augusta before even starting his college career makes his story one of the most unique in the field.
While the Masters brings together players from all over the world, only a small group has real connections to Georgia. For them, this tournament isn’t just another major.
It’s the one that feels like home.