Six-time Masters champion Jack Nicklaus said the depth of talent at this year's tournament was remarkable.
Keegan Bradley: Always a threat
Most golf pundits and bookmakers have already decided that Tiger Woods is the outright favourite to win another green jacket at Augusta National. Woods' recent return to the summit of the world golf rankings has only reinforced that sentiment.
However, Nicklaus - who knows what is required to win at Augusta National better than anybody else - said a fifth Masters title for Woods was not a foregone conclusion.
"I'm glad to see Rory (McIlroy) playing better again because he really struggled this spring, and Tiger (Woods) is playing really, really well," said Nicklaus.
"Phil (Mickelson) is playing all right and he's always going to be a factor here," added Nicklaus.
It is well documented that Augusta National favours the players who hit the ball long and far. Nicklaus singled out a few players he felt could take full advantage on one of the longer courses in the game.
"Keegan Bradley has had a good spring and Nicolas Colsaerts, the golf course suits him pretty well. Some day he's going to do very well here.
"(Lee) Westwood and (Luke) Donald have both knocked on the door here, and Adam Scott has knocked on the door here. Dustin Johnson, this should also be a good golf course for him," added Nicklaus.
The Masters have also produced several surprise winners in the past. Among them are defending champion Bubba Watson, Charl Schwartzel (2011), Angel Cabrera (2009), Trevor Immelman (2008) and Zach Johnson (2007).
Many of the surprises have occurred recently and Nicklaus recognises that.
"And there are always a few guys you don't think about. You probably don't think a lot about K.J. Choi, but K.J. Choi is always right there," said Nicklaus.
"The field is as deep as it's ever been so I think that speaks well for the game, speaks well for international competition and growth of the game everywhere.
"You've even got 14-year-olds playing in the golf tournament,"
"I think that's pretty special," he added.
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