Masters gossip

Westwood finished second at Augusta last year

Former Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance has tipped England’s Lee Westwood to end his major drought at this week’s Masters. “His score of 275 last year would have won in 17 of the previous 20 years,” said Torrance. “He knows he can do it and I believe he’s ready.”
Full story: Daily Mail

And Westwood’s coach Pete Cowen believes the world number two has “every chance” of winning at Augusta. Cowen, also coach to US Open champion Graeme McDowell and Open champion Louis Oosthuizen, says his players have been working hard to control their ball flight going into the tournament.
Full story: the Telegraph

But three-time Masters champion Nick Faldo thinks Luke Donald is the best hope of British success. “Only the best putters win the Masters – and he is one of them,” Faldo said.
Full story: the Times (subscription required)

Rory McIlroy has been practising his putting on three specially tailored £10,000 greens in his back garden. McIlroy’s putting coach, Dr. Paul Hurrion, said: “He has two full-time staff to replicate the greens. It shows how committed he is.”
Full story: Daily Mirror

England’s Ian Poulter is “hungry to finish the job” after a frustrating weekend at last year’s tournament. Poulter was tied with Westwood for the 36-hole lead last time around before his challenge faded over the final two days.
Full story: Daily Express

And fellow countryman Justin Rose says his preparation for the first major of the season could not have gone any better. Rose, who failed to qualify for Augusta last year, spent some pre-tournament time in the Bahamas. “It’s obviously not a bad place for some rest and relaxation,” he said.
Full story: Daily Mail