The Masters is known for its rich traditions, and we'd like to start a tradition of our own when it comes to covering golf's first major. Last year we tapped into the enormous computing power of ChatGPT to predict the outcome at Augusta National, and the large language model was uncannily accurate.
Not only did ChatGPT correctly predict that Scottie Scheffler would win his second green jacket, but it went so far as to describe his final putt on the 18th hole with the kind of extravagant lyricism that would have made an 18th century poet blush.
We were so impressed with the result that we've gone back to ChatGPT again, asking it to weigh in on this year's talented field. We brought it up to speed by feeding it the latest statistical and betting information available. That included Masters odds for the entire field of 90+ golfers, the results of every PGA and LIV Golf event from the past 12 months, and a number of advanced metrics like driving distance, putts per hole, and driving accuracy.
We then provided ChatGPT with historical information from recent iterations of the Masters and supplied it with essential information about the layout of Augusta National Golf Club.
It considered the data carefully and, within a matter of seconds, provided us Masters predictions for the Top 5 finishers and a pair of enticing props. The results weren’t entirely shocking, but the level of detail was impressive just the same.
2024 Masters Top 5
The 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club is shaping up to be an exciting event, with several golfers entering the competition in strong form. Based on current performances and course suitability, here are five players who are likely to finish in the Top 5:
5. Jordan Spieth (+3000)
Current form: Spieth has delivered strong showings at Augusta in past years, demonstrating comfort on the course.
Strengths: His course knowledge, creativity around the greens, and elite putting are significant assets at Augusta National. Improving consistency off the tee could bolster his performance.
4. Viktor Hovland (+3300)
Current form: Hovland has shown steady improvement, with notable performances in major tournaments.
Strengths: Known for his precision iron shots and aggressive playstyle, Hovland's game aligns well with Augusta's demands. Addressing his short game could further enhance his chances.
3. Jon Rahm (+1600)
Current form: The 2023 champion, Rahm has consistently ranked in the Top 5 globally, with strong finishes in majors.
Strengths: Rahm's powerful drives and clutch putting make him a formidable presence at Augusta. His well-rounded game and experience position him for another high finish.
2. Rory McIlroy (+650)
Current form: McIlroy enters the Masters with recent wins at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and THE PLAYERS Championship, showcasing his readiness for Augusta.
Strengths: McIlroy's driving distance and experience at Augusta position him well for a strong performance. His elite ball-striking and mental fortitude are assets at this prestigious event.
1. Scottie Scheffler (+450)
Current form: As the reigning Masters champion, Scheffler has demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency. His dominant performance in the 2024 season, including multiple PGA Tour victories, solidifies his status as a top contender.
Strengths: Renowned for his powerful ball-striking and mental resilience, Scheffler's game is well-suited to the challenges of Augusta National. His improved putting adds a new dimension to his already formidable skill set.
Method of victory
Under the golden hues of an April morning, Augusta National Golf Club stood serene, its undulating fairways and lightning-fast greens awaiting the world's finest golfers. Among them, Scottie Scheffler, emerged as the embodiment of resilience and mastery, scripting a victory that would become a testament to his unwavering spirit.
The year began with unforeseen challenges for Scheffler. A mishap in the kitchen during Christmas preparations left him nursing a hand injury, sidelining him from early-season tournaments and casting doubts on his form. Yet, true to his nature, Scheffler embraced the adversity, using it as fuel to reignite his passion for the game.
As spring approached, Scheffler's game began to find its rhythm. A tie for third at the Genesis Invitational in February showcased his resurgence. This momentum culminated in a near-miss at the Texas Children's Houston Open, where he finished one stroke behind Min Woo Lee, reinforcing his readiness for Augusta.
From the first tee shot at the Masters, Scheffler's presence was commanding. His ball-striking was a symphony of precision, each swing echoing his journey from adversity to triumph. The greens, often a nemesis in his previous attempts, became allies as he sank crucial putts, including a pivotal birdie on the 16th hole that solidified his lead.
As the final putt dropped, a collective cheer rose from the galleries. Scheffler, with humility and grace, donned the coveted green jacket for the third time in his career, joining an elite group of multiple Masters champions. His victory was not just a personal triumph but a narrative of resilience, skill, and an unyielding belief in oneself.
Scottie Scheffler's 2025 Masters win transcended the sport; it became a story of overcoming obstacles, embracing challenges, and emerging victorious — a narrative that will inspire golfers and enthusiasts for generations to come.
Top European
As much as we liked ChatGPT's narration, we still had more betting questions, so we also asked it who would be the top European at the tournament. It took all of two seconds to return this pick:
Aiming to complete the career Grand Slam, Rory McIlroy enters the 2025 Masters with high expectations. Despite his past struggles at Augusta, including missing the cut three times, he has achieved seven Top-10 finishes, with a runner-up spot in 2022 being his best result. His recent wins, such as the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and THE PLAYERS Championship, demonstrate his current form and readiness to tackle Augusta's challenges.
Covers golf betting tools
Will there be a hole-in-one at the Masters?
Since 1934, there have been 34 hole-in-ones recorded at Augusta National Golf Club. Notably, the 16th hole has been particularly generous, accounting for approximately 70.58% of these aces.
In recent years, the occurrence of hole-in-ones has remained relatively consistent. For instance, during the 2024 Masters Par 3 Contest, multiple aces were achieved, highlighting the potential for such shots even in practice rounds. Additionally, the Par 3 Contest has seen multiple holes-in-one in several editions, further emphasizing the likelihood of aces during the event.
Given this historical context, a hole-in-one at the 2025 Masters Tournament is not just a possibility — it's almost certain to happen.
ChatGPT is an impressive tool capable of producing entertaining results, but it ultimately lacks the insights and experience of a veteran handicapper. Check out our free golf picks from the experts at Covers to get the most informed analysis.
