As the golf world turns its eyes to Augusta National for the 2026 Masters, a fascinating question emerges: which players have prepared most precisely for the unique challenges of this hallowed course? Thanks to cutting-edge data, we now have an answer.

For the second consecutive year, The Masters has meticulously tracked every single ball struck on the practice range. This means we know exactly what types of shots each player rehearsed before the first tee shot. Simultaneously, DataGolf's predictive model has forecasted the specific approach shots every competitor is likely to face based on their driving profile and Augusta's demanding layout.

By merging these two powerful datasets, we can identify the players whose practice routines most closely mirror the battle plan Augusta will demand. It's the ultimate measure of strategic preparation. As Tommy Fleetwood noted, mastering Augusta is about "learning what certain aspects of the course require and how you can practice that."

So, which players have optimized their range time with surgical precision? The top seven performers all aligned their practice within a razor-thin two percent margin of their projected shot needs. This isn't just practice; it's data-driven preparation at its finest.

Here are the golfers who have best bridged the gap between prediction and preparation, ensuring their game is tailored for the precise tests of Amen Corner and Augusta's treacherous greens. Their focused work on the range could be the key to unlocking success when the tournament pressure is at its peak.