Can Rahm Defend His Green Jacket? Masters Storylines to Watch

The azalea blooms and the scent of pine needles fill the air once again as Augusta National hosts another edition of the Masters. This year's tournament promises a captivating blend of familiar faces and intriguing narratives. Here are some of the key storylines to watch:

• Jon Rahm's Repeat Bid: Following a thrilling victory in 2023, Jon Rahm finds himself in unfamiliar territory. His much-publicized move to the LIV Golf circuit raises questions about his preparation for the major stage. History is also stacked against him, as only a select few golfers have successfully defended their Masters title. Can Rahm overcome these hurdles and etch his name further into Masters lore?
• LIV Golf and the Masters: The ongoing rift between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf adds another layer of intrigue. While LIV players are not technically banned from the Masters, their participation raises questions about the future of the tournament and the sport itself. Will the presence of LIV players like Rahm create a different atmosphere at Augusta National?
• Rory McIlroy's Quest for the Grand Slam: Rory McIlroy, a four-time major champion, remains tantalizingly close to a career Grand Slam. Augusta National has proven to be his biggest hurdle. Will 2024 be the year McIlroy finally conquers the Masters and silences the doubters?
• Scottie Scheffler's Title Defense Ambitions: While not the defending champion, Scottie Scheffler's scorching driving and approach play recently makes him a favorite. The world number one is on fire, winning both the Arnold Palmer Invitational and Players Championship, before finishing runner-up at the Houston Open. Can he keep his momentum and contend for a green jacket this year?
• Brooks Koepka: King of Majors Aims for Another Crown: Brooks Koepka, a serial winner in majors, always seems to elevate his game at Augusta National. With four major victories under his belt, will Koepka add another green jacket to his collection?
• Who Will Rise from the Pack? Beyond the established stars, there's a crop of young players hungry for Masters glory. There are 20 Masters rookies this year and no rookie has won since Fuzzy Zoeller in 1979. Will a rising talent make a surprise run at the title? 
• Can Tiger Woods Pull off a Miraculous Masters Win? Tiger Woods believes that he could win again, however most people don’t think that’s going to happen. But you never know with Tiger, who’s confidence and mental strength have been some of his strongest assets. He hasn’t missed a cut at the Masters since he was 20 years old. If he makes the cut again this weekend, he will hold the record for most consecutive made cuts at the Masters. If he wins, it will be nothing short of a miracle.

These are just a few of the storylines that will unfold as the world's best golfers battle it out for golfing immortality. With history on the line, rivalries renewed, and a new era potentially dawning, the 2024 Masters promises to be one for the ages.