**Masters 2024 Predictions**: Who Will Be the Surprise Golf Star to Shine at Augusta National This Year?

Augusta, Georgia – As the anticipation for the 88th Masters builds, golf enthusiasts worldwide are pondering the same question: Who will emerge victorious at Augusta National this year? The upcoming championship boasts a remarkable lineup featuring top professionals and elite amateurs, promising an exhilarating journey from the opening round on Thursday to the prestigious green jacket presentation on Sunday evening.

Defending champions Scottie Scheffler and Jon Rahm bring formidable momentum to the tournament, with Rahm aiming to achieve a rare back-to-back victory akin to Tiger Woods’ historic feat. Meanwhile, Scheffler’s exceptional performance positions him as a clear favorite to clinch his second green jacket in three years, boasting odds of 9/2 – a stark contrast to the absence of single-digit favorites in the previous Masters edition.

Notable contenders like Brooks Koepka, Jordan Spieth, and Viktor Hovland are poised to challenge the frontrunners, adding depth to an already stacked field. The tournament’s excitement is further heightened by the return of Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, with Woods displaying resilience despite physical limitations and Mickelson defying the odds at 200-1.

Predictions and insights from CBS Sports experts offer a glimpse into the potential outcomes of the tournament, with key matchups and underdogs sparking intrigue among fans and analysts alike. From sleeper picks like Cameron Young to seasoned competitors like Hideki Matsuyama, the Masters promises a flurry of intense competition culminating in a gripping showdown for the iconic green jacket.

As the tournament unfolds, the spotlight shines on prominent contenders like Scottie Scheffler and Jon Rahm, each carrying unique narratives and pressures into Augusta National. Against the backdrop of thrilling head-to-head battles and surprising predictions, the 88th Masters sets the stage for a riveting display of skill and determination as golf’s elite vie for glory on one of the sport’s most hallowed grounds.