Golf bettors have their eyes on the skies above Augusta National, trying to figure out how spring weather could impact their 2023 Masters bets.
Here's how you should factor weather into your 2023 Masters betting.
Masters 2023 weather conditions
Ahead of the tournament starting on April 6, we will provide an in-depth look at how the weather will impact 2023 Masters odds, course conditions, and how to use that info best to handicap the Masters field heading into the tournament.
Masters weather forecast for Augusta, GA
The Masters begins today, and we're starting to get a picture of the weather for the four-day tournament. Here's a quick overview of the conditions for each round of the 2023 Masters as of Thursday, April 6.
It could be wet at Augusta this year, with rain in the forecast for the first three rounds.
| Date | Temperature | 24-hour rain | PoP | Wind |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 6 | 84° | Partly sunny (Trace amounts) | 20% | 4 mph SE/Gusts 6 mph |
| April 7 | 81° | Risk of Thunderstorm (0.75-1 inches) | 60% | 10 mph SE/Gusts 15 mph |
| April 8 | 54° | Rain (2 inches) | 100% | 12 mph NE/Gusts 18 mph |
| April 9 | 61° | Mostly cloudy | 30% | 12 mph NE/Gusts 19 mph |
How does the weather affect Masters betting?
Softer fairways
When dry, the spring track at Augusta National's turf is as tender as an airport tarmac. That means extra yards for those big hitters off the tee box. However, cooler temperatures and heavy rains and thunderstorms could the course ahead.
While Augusta National drains well, the fairways will be softer in the early rounds. That means less length off the tee box but more forgiveness in terms of accuracy, as wayward tee shots won't roll into the rough.
That puts an emphasis on second-shot power and approach when it comes to longer Par-5 holes. Cooler temperatures on Friday and Saturday could keep things soft, but warmer weather on Sunday will firm up the course for the final round.
Stick the landing
Second shots and approach shots are always tricky at Augusta National but the course should play nice - at least in the first two rounds - with rain and the cooler climate allowing balls to stick better.
The subtle slopes and undulations of Augusta National won't be as slick as past tournaments played in hotter temperatures, so holes like No. 12 Golden Bell, No. 15 Firethorn, and No. 16 Redbud don't hold the same danger of running harder approach shots into the drink.
It's always smart to back golfers with maximum control on their second and approach shots, but those skill sets could have more wiggle room in the opening round of the 2023 Masters.
Not easy being greens
If August National is known for anything, it’s the greens and the challenge the grounds crew lays down every spring. Even during the pandemic-displaced 2020 Masters, state-of-the-art turf management systems allowed the November greens to play closer to their April form.
Even with the rain, the SubAir system-controlled greens at Augusta are regulated and maintained at a level usually reserved for museum masterpieces, so don’t bank on them slowing up much.
Leaning on the best players with a putter is never a bad golf betting strategy, regardless of the event, but finding a short-game combo of pinpoint approach and measured putting is a smart way to cash in those Masters wagers.
Where can I bet on the Masters?
With the Masters being North America's most popular golf event, all sportsbooks and betting sites will offer Masters betting markets. The trick is finding one that is reputable, trustworthy and has all the bells and whistles you're looking for. Luckily, we've done that work for you. Check out our recommendations for the best golf betting sites before you deposit and start betting.
