Who is the 2024 Masters Dark Horse?

In a captivating hour-long discussion, double US Open champions Curtis Strange and Andy North delved into their insights on a range of golfing talents, including Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and Tiger Woods. However, it was the mention of Ludvig Aberg, a relative newcomer to the professional golf scene, that kickstarted the conversation during a media session organized by ESPN ahead of the 88th Masters.

Despite Aberg’s lack of major experience and his recent transition from college golf to the professional circuit, his meteoric rise has been impossible to ignore. Ranked as the world No. 9, Aberg has already secured victories on both the DP World Tour and PGA Tour, showcasing his prowess as a formidable competitor. Both North and Strange expressed admiration for Aberg’s playing style and demeanor, with North labeling him as a potential “superstar.”

North praised Aberg’s straightforward approach to the game, highlighting his attacking mindset and confident play. Similarly, Strange emphasized Aberg’s dominance in college golf and his impressive physical attributes, predicting a promising future for the young Swede.

The conversation then shifted to established favorites like Scottie Scheffler, the 2022 Masters winner, who enters the tournament in formidable form. North and Strange acknowledged Scheffler’s exceptional skills, particularly his prowess from tee to green, while also recognizing the stiff competition he faces from other top players.

Attention turned to defending champion Jon Rahm, who has had a relatively quiet start to the year. Despite Rahm’s lighter schedule, both pundits expressed confidence in his ability to perform well at Augusta National, citing his talent and previous success at the tournament.

The discussion concluded with reflections on Tiger Woods, whose presence at the Masters generated considerable excitement. While acknowledging Woods’ enduring greatness, North and Strange also voiced concerns about his ability to sustain top-level performance over multiple rounds.

As anticipation builds for the 88th Masters, the emergence of Ludvig Aberg as a dark horse contender adds an intriguing dynamic to the tournament’s narrative, showcasing the depth of talent in the world of professional golf.