As the The Masters approaches, one of golf’s top contenders is facing serious uncertainty.
Collin Morikawa is expected to play at Augusta, but an ongoing back injury has cast doubt over just how competitive he can be when the tournament begins.
A Sudden Setback at the Worst Time
Morikawa’s issues trace back to The Players Championship, where he was forced to withdraw after just one hole due to a back injury. The two-time major champion felt discomfort during a practice swing and immediately knew something wasn’t right.
Since then, his preparation for Augusta has been anything but normal.
He also missed additional time following that withdrawal, leaving him without the consistent reps most players rely on heading into a major championship.
“Day by Day” Heading Into Augusta
Morikawa has made it clear he plans to compete—but he’s far from 100 percent.
The world-class ball striker admitted he’s taking a “day-by-day” approach as he works through the injury, noting that while his back is improving, his body still doesn’t feel fully in sync.
That’s a major concern at Augusta, where precision, timing, and confidence are critical.
Even the smallest physical limitation can make a huge difference on a course that demands complete control.
Why This Matters at the Masters
Morikawa isn’t just another name in the field—he’s been one of the most consistent performers at Augusta in recent years.
- Top-20 finishes in each of his last five Masters appearances
- One of the best iron players in the world
- Proven major championship winner
That track record makes him a legitimate contender—when healthy.
But if he’s limited, it could completely change the outlook of the tournament.
The Bigger Picture
The timing couldn’t be worse.
Morikawa entered the season in strong form, including a recent win at Pebble Beach, and was seen as a serious threat to contend for the green jacket.
Now, instead of building momentum, he’s simply trying to get his body right in time to compete.
The Bottom Line
Morikawa is expected to tee it up at Augusta—but expectations are suddenly much more uncertain.
If he’s healthy, he’s one of the most dangerous players in the field.
If not, his chances could be significantly limited before the tournament even begins.
And heading into the Masters, that uncertainty might be one of the biggest storylines to watch.
