Sir Nick Faldo Names Ludvig Aberg as His 2026 Masters Favorite
Golf icon Sir Nick Faldo has revealed his final prediction for the 2026 Masters, tipping Sweden's Ludvig Aberg to secure his maiden major victory at Augusta National. This comes as defending champion Rory McIlroy aims to retain the Green Jacket after his dramatic 2025 win.
McIlroy's Defense Faces Emotional Hurdles
McIlroy ended a decade-long major drought last year by defeating Justin Rose in a sudden-death playoff, completing the career Grand Slam. However, Faldo—one of only three players to successfully defend the Masters—questions whether McIlroy can replicate the intense emotions of that victory.
'You can’t flip the light switch and just reproduce all that emotion again,' Faldo stated. 'I don’t believe that happens. Last year was so emotional, the whole build-up. It was kind of in the air, wasn’t it?'
McIlroy's understated, injury-affected start to the 2026 season adds to the challenge, with Faldo noting the difficulty of summoning the same fighting spirit after such a draining triumph.
British Contingent Remains Strong
Despite his doubts about McIlroy, Faldo remains optimistic about the British players competing this week. He highlighted the form of Bob MacIntyre, Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood, and Matt Fitzpatrick.
'We got Bob from Scotland, and Rose and Tommy and Fitzy. They’re all playing very well,' Faldo said. 'I think the local home lads are looking very good this year, aren’t they? I think we’ll definitely have a couple of them in the mix by Sunday.'
Why Aberg Is the Pick
Faldo's prediction centers on Ludvig Aberg, the metronomic World No. 17, who has shown impressive recent form. Aberg finished second and seventh in his first two starts at Augusta National, demonstrating a strong affinity for the course.
'I think Aberg was my favourite last year as well,' Faldo noted. 'And obviously, he was right in there at The Players last month. I just love the way he was playing that particular week. And that’s only a month in between.'
Faldo added, 'So he’s probably my favourite. I’m not 100% sure, but I’ve got a feeling he’d be in the mix.'
Other Expert Predictions for the 2026 Masters
Other golf analysts have shared their picks for the tournament:
- Brandel Chamblee (Golf Channel): Backs Jon Rahm, citing his exciting, combative style and potential for a compelling showdown with top players like Scottie Scheffler or Rory McIlroy.
- Butch Harmon (Sky Sports): Favors Justin Rose, noting his recent victory at Torrey Pines, increased driving distance, and confidence, making him a strong contender beyond the favorites.
- Paul McGinley (Sky Sports): Highlights Xander Schauffele as trending toward a big performance and quietly likes Bob MacIntyre, pointing to left-handers' success at Augusta and MacIntyre's top-10 major finishes in 2025.
The 2026 Masters promises high drama as McIlroy seeks to join an elite group of repeat winners, while Aberg and other contenders vie for glory. With expert opinions divided, all eyes will be on Augusta National to see if Faldo's feeling proves prophetic.
