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McIlroy Seizes Six-Shot Lead at Masters After Birdie Blitz

The defending champion is chasing a rare repeat at Augusta under fast, dry conditions that have put a premium on control.

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AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 09: Bryson DeChambeau of the United States looks on while playing the 13th hole during the first round of the 2026 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 09, 2026 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Rory McIlroy, who shot a 7-under 65 Friday with six birdies in his last seven holes including a 29-yard chip-in at 17, reached 12-under to lead by six.
  • Sam Burns sits at 6-under for a Saturday pairing with McIlroy, with Patrick Reed also at 6-under after a missed par at 18, and Justin Rose, Shane Lowry and Tommy Fleetwood at 5-under.
  • A rain-free forecast has left Augusta firm and fast, though greens played softer Friday, and players expect the course to harden over the weekend.
  • Scottie Scheffler fell to even par after a 74, Jon Rahm made the cut on the number at 4-over, and Bryson DeChambeau missed the weekend after a triple bogey at 18.
  • McIlroy is trying to become the fourth player to win back-to-back Masters titles, as his relaxed champions’ locker room remark after round one drew mixed fan response.