Justin Rose can become highest-earning Masters player in history despite never winning Green Jacket

Apr 8, 2026 - 15:45

For the first time since 1994, neither Tiger Woods or Phil Mickelson will not be taking part in The Masters.

The American greats have eight Green Jackets between them from a combined 58 appearances at Augusta.

Augusta is ready to kick off the golf Major season

They are No. 1 and No. 2 in the all-time ranks for most prize money received at the iconic course, but the door is now open for the chasing pack.

Five-time champion Woods is taking time away from the sport after his latest car crash and DUI charge, while LIV Golf superstar Mickelson is dealing with a family matter.

Mickelson has banked $9.87 million at The Masters over his career — just ahead of his compatriot’s $9.64 million.

Rory McIlroy is hot on their heels with $8.54 million as he looks to join a rare group of men to have defended the Green Jacket alongside Woods, Nick Faldo and Jack Nicklaus.

He is competing for the 18th time a year after completing a career Grand Slam in Georgia.

To highlight how prize money has changed over the years, Nicklaus and his record six Augusta triumphs are worth just $772,359 — not even good enough to make the top 100.

Scottie Scheffler, who has two wins from six appearances, is fourth on $8.05 million.

Surprisingly, Englishman Justin Rose rounds out the top five despite never triumphing at Augusta.

With $6.69 million, he is one of four men including Jordan Spieth (6.37 million) in with a shot at taking the No. 1 spot going into Thursday’s opening round.

Patrick Reed, Jon Rahm, Dustin Johnson and Bubba Watson complete the top 10, with Rose the only one not to pull on the coveted jacket.

Rose has finished second three times at Augusta

Always the bridesmaid, he finished second behind McIlroy in an epic 2025 edition — the third time he has been a runner-up and second he lost in a play-off.

McIlroy won $4.2 million last year, with the 2026 breakdown not released until after the cut.

John Daly’s Hooters haul

John Daly has also raked in money from Augusta, but not on the course.

Every year since 1997, Long John has celebrated a unique tradition at a Hooters restaurant close to the Augusta course.

He would pull up to the parking lot in his RV and sell merchandise to adoring fans.

Unfortunately, the location was demolished in November.

His team told ESPN that he sold $780,000 of goods in 2024 alone, meaning Daly will be significantly out of pocket if he can’t find a new spot.

$21 million will be dished out in prize money

Rory McIlroy comfortable in Green Jacket

The time for talk is almost done, and all eyes will be on McIlroy as he looks to defend his title and surpass Woods.

“I feel comfortable on the golf course, I feel comfortable with my game,” he said Tuesday ahead of his Champions Dinner.

“It’s been a good three weeks at home getting ready physically and mentally, and preparing for everything this week is going to throw at me.

“I know I can do it now so that should make it easier for me to go out and play the game I want to play.”

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