Saturday 9 May, 2026
McIlroy joins Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Nick Faldo as the only back-to-back winners in Masters history.
McIlroy lost a six-shot lead while Lowry hit another famous hole-in-one across a scorching day of drama.
We spent Friday following the drama at the signature hole of Augusta National.
McIlroy now holds the biggest halfway lead in the history of the Masters.
The action continues at Augusta.
Lowry double-bogeyed the fourth hole but reacted well to sign for a two-under round of 70.
McIlroy showed all of his experience and his new-found comfort at Augusta National for his lowest opening round score in 15 years.
McIlroy and Sam Burns are safely in the clubhouse on five-under par.
From The 42
We preview the 2026 Masters at Augusta National.
McIlroy’s dinner was reportedly the most expensive ever hosted, at an estimated cost of €290 a head.
McIlroy this week seeks to become only the fourth man to defend the green jacket.
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