Augusta National is the ultimate golf challenge NEWS
It may come as a surprise to casual observers, but its 13 years since a European golfer triumphed at Augusta National. The last European winner, Jose Maria Olazabal, claimed his 2nd Green Jacket in 1999 and, after Tiger Wood's blistering start to the season, the probability of this winless streak ending seems unlikely.
Augusta National, with its rolling fairways, perfectly manicured greens and flowering azaleas, is to many the ultimate challenge in golf and the many golfers and fans around the world are eagerly anticipating what is likely to be a classic Masters tournament.
Tiger Woods, who once again heads the world rankings following his third victory of the season at Bay Hill two weeks ago, is not surprisingly the heavy favourite for a fifth Masters title. The world number one has consistently teed off as the favourite since the early 2000's, even during his troubled years, but this year the common consensus within the golfing community is that 14 time major champion is back to his best.
The main European hope is of course Rory McIlory. The Northern Irishmen has been widely criticised for his performances this year which some have suggested is a result of switching his club manufacturer. The world number two made a last minute decision to play at the Shell Houston Open last week and his subsequent top five finish, his first of the season, suggests he may be starting to find his game.
Of course there are many other European contenders who will be vying for the first major title of the year. Justin Rose has made an impressive start to 2013 with four top ten finishes. Lee Westwood played two excellent rounds at last year's tournament but once again his short game let him down at crucial moments. The former world no.1 will hope his recent move to Florida will aid his short game if similar opportunities arise.
Other Europeans, such as Luke Donald, Ian Poulter and Henrik Stenson will be hoping that they can find the consistency to play four solid rounds of golf whilst Sergio Garcia is still hunting for the first major of his career and will be hoping he doesn't to have climb any trees this week to chip back onto the fairway.
There are a host of US players who will feel they have the game to win at Augusta. Fan's favourite Phil Mickelson will be aiming to secure his third Masters title and will be desperately searching to find the magic which produced one of most memorable shots in Masters history from the woods of the par five 11th. Defending champion Bubba Watson is another favourite amongst the other US competitors who will be aiming to keep the green jacket in US possession.
To some the Masters tournament signifies the real beginning of the golf season and this year's tournament features perhaps the most competitive field in recent history. Despite the strength of the field, it's hard to imagine that Tiger Woods won't be challenging for the lead come 9:00pm Sunday night. British and Northern Irish fans will hope that Rory McIlroy is there battling with him for his first green jacket and third major.
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