Overview
- Li Haotong, who said he was "living in the toilet," fought through illness Friday to card a three-under 69 and sit tied for seventh after 36 holes, eight behind leader Rory McIlroy.
- He considered playing only a few holes before withdrawing, yet he finished all 18 and said he felt better by the end.
- Bogeys on 4 and 7 left him over par at the turn before four straight birdies on 13, 14, 15 and 16 pushed him into contention.
- This is his first Masters start since 2019 and his third appearance at Augusta National.
- He arrived with uneven 2026 form, including several missed cuts and a best of T8 at the American Express, so this weekend could steady his season if the momentum holds.