Golf

The 2026 edition of The Masters Tournament marked a rare and symbolic shift as iconic golfers Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson were absent from the field. The last such instance predates the birth of current world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, underscoring the longevity of both legends. While their absence resonates globally as a turning point, its impact in India remains muted. Former golfer Indrajit Bhalotia notes that Woods’ influence on Indian golf has been limited, reflecting the sport’s niche positioning within the country’s broader sports economy.

The Indian Golf Professional League (IGPL) took a significant stride in reshaping India’s golfing landscape with the unveiling of its inaugural squads at a high-profile event in New Delhi. Held at The Oberoi, the ceremony featured cricket legend Yuvraj Singh and IGPL CEO Uttam Singh Mundy presenting a mix of seasoned professionals and emerging talent. Beyond competition, IGPL’s vision encompasses grassroots development, infrastructure expansion, and tourism promotion.

Aditi Ashok emerged as the highest-placed Indian after the first round of the Aramco Championships in Las Vegas, securing a tied-58th position. Fellow countrywomen Avani Prashanth and Diksha Dagar posted identical rounds of 3-over 75, placing them at T-71, while Pranavi Urs struggled with a 4-over 76, tying for 90th. With the projected cut at 2-over par, Ashok hovers on the cusp of qualification, whereas the others face the prospect of an early exit. The first round underscores the tournament’s competitiveness and the fine margins separating advancement from elimination.

Indian golf veteran Gaganjeet Bhullar will spearhead the country’s campaign at the 2026 International Series Japan, scheduled from April 2 to April 5 at the Caledonian Golf Club in Chiba. Bhullar, the most successful Indian golfer on the Asian Tour with 11 titles, enters the tournament in strong form after multiple victories on the Indian Golf Premier League Tour. He will be joined by a blend of experienced professionals and emerging talents, including Karandeep Kochhar, Jeev Milkha Singh, SSP Chawrasia, Jyoti Randhawa and Shaurya Bhattacharya.

Spain’s Eugenio Chacarra is on the brink of a historic title defense at the Hero Indian Open, holding a four-stroke lead heading into the final round at the DLF Golf and Country Club in Gurugram. With a composed third-round performance, Chacarra strengthened his position in a tournament known for its challenging course conditions. A victory would make him the first golfer to successfully defend the title at this venue since it began hosting the event in 2017.