While the spotlight at Augusta National shines brightest on names like defending champion Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Jon Rahm, history reminds us that The Masters often rewards the fearless — not just the famous.
From Charl Schwartzel’s surprise surge in 2011 to Danny Willett’s improbable win in 2016, The Masters has a habit of elevating sleepers into the Sunday spotlight. This year’s tournament, already teeming with anticipation, offers another crop of under-the-radar threats ready to shake up the leaderboard.
Here are five sleepers to watch this week at The Masters 2025:
1. Min Woo Lee
World Ranking: 36
Masters Appearances: 2 (Best Finish: T14 in 2023)
The Australian firecracker has quietly built a reputation as one of the most explosive players on tour. Lee’s creativity around the greens and growing poise in major settings make him a dangerous threat on Augusta’s undulating terrain. If he can control his driver and stay hot with the putter, don’t be surprised to see his name in the top 10 come Sunday.
2. Sahith Theegala
World Ranking: 28
Masters Appearances: 1 (Best Finish: T9 in 2023)
Theegala made a splash last year with a crowd-pleasing top-10 finish in his Masters debut. Known for his unorthodox swing and fearless play, the 26-year-old has the kind of momentum and moxie that thrives at Augusta. With a better understanding of the course and more experience in pressure situations, Theegala is more than just a long shot — he’s a contender in waiting.
3. Cam Davis
World Ranking: 42
Masters Appearances: 1 (Missed Cut in 2022)
The 6-foot-4 Aussie isn’t exactly peaking at the right time. Davis enters the week with a string of average finishes. But, Davis has a game that suits Augusta’s demands: towering iron shots, sneaky-good scrambling, and a calm demeanor. After missing the cut in his lone appearance, he returns with confidence and an improved all-around game.
4. Denny McCarthy
World Ranking: 50
Masters Appearances: Debut
McCarthy, one of the best putters on the PGA Tour, makes his Masters debut with nothing to lose — and everything to gain. While first-timers rarely win at Augusta, McCarthy’s elite short game and steady temperament could turn him into this year’s surprise weekend storyline.
5. Nick Taylor
World Ranking: 34
Masters Appearances: 2 (Best Finish: Missed Cut in 2020 & 2021)
Nick Taylor enters Augusta with motivation, having shaken off his journeyman label with a historic win at the RBC Canadian Open. Taylor’s putting stroke is among the best on tour, and his recent form suggests he could be ready to flip the script at The Masters. If he can keep his nerves in check and dial in his irons, he has the tools to hang around deep into the weekend.
Why Sleepers Matter at Augusta
The Masters may often favor the elite, but Augusta National is also a place where momentum, course management, and putting brilliance can trump reputation. With pressure mounting and conditions fluctuating, it’s often the grinders — not the glamor picks — who make the cut and contend.
Don’t be shocked if one of these five golfers puts on a serious charge this weekend. In a field stacked with talent, it’s the sleepers who often write the most memorable stories.
Follow full Masters 2025 coverage all week long for live updates, leaderboard movement, and analysis of every storyline from Augusta National.
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