What happens if there’s a tie at The Masters? The rules explained
The 2025 Masters is going to the wire with Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose having to play a sudden death play-off.


If there is a tie for the lead after 72 holes at the Masters Tournament, a sudden-death playoff will determine the winner. Here’s how the play-off works:
The playoff between McIlroy and Rose begins on the 18th hole. If the players involved in the play-off remain tied after the 18th, they proceed to the 10th hole. This two-hole rotation (18th, then 10th) continues until a winner is decided.
Three-way tie atop the leader board. #themasters pic.twitter.com/WHcR4LXXyj
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April 13, 2025
There have been 17 playoffs in Masters history. Eleven of those have been under the sudden-death format with The Masters adopting the sudden-death playoff format in 1976. The first sudden-death playoff occurred in 1979, when Fuzzy Zoeller defeated Ed Sneed and Tom Watson in a three way battle for the coveted green jacket.
Since the sudden-death format was implemented, no Masters playoff has gone beyond the second playoff hole.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment
Your opinion will be published with first and last names