Dramatic Leaders Clash as Masters Tournament Nears Its Final Round

AUGUSTA, Ga. – Rory McIlroy heads into the final round of the 2025 Masters Tournament with a slim lead, aiming for his fifth major title. As the tournament approaches its conclusion on Sunday, the leaderboard showcases a tight race, with McIlroy sitting at 12-under par, just two strokes ahead of Justin Rose, who has rallied after an earlier shaky performance.

After a strong start, McIlroy had built a comfortable five-stroke lead but faced pressure from Rose, who has been on fire with ten birdies in his round so far. The anticipation thickens as fans wonder if McIlroy can hold off the relentless pursuit by his competitor with only a few holes remaining.

“It’s all about maintaining focus,” McIlroy said after finishing the third round. “I understand the pressure, but I want to finish strong.” With his eagle on the Par-5 15th hole earlier in the tournament, McIlroy’s potential to pull away is still in sight.

Meanwhile, Rose is not to be underestimated. His impressive 6-under 66 on Saturday has ignited his hopes for a comeback, now tying him with McIlroy at 11-under for the weekend. The consistent birdies have fans buzzing, and a long putt on the 12th hole added to his growing momentum.

“I’ve just been taking it hole by hole,” Rose stated. “I feel good, and I know anything can happen.”

Behind them, Bryson DeChambeau and rookie sensation Ludvig Aberg are within reach, sitting at 10-under and 9-under, respectively. DeChambeau is known for his ability to make daring plays, having just concluded his round with a remarkable birdie on the 18th hole.

As for Aberg, he maintains steady play, showcasing his competitive spirit and moving one shot behind DeChambeau. “The atmosphere out here is electric,” Aberg noted. “It’s all about keeping your nerves in check.”

Weather conditions are expected to be favorable on Sunday, with temperatures projected to reach a high of 71 degrees and minimal wind. This may create optimal playing conditions for the competitors. CBS will provide live coverage starting at 2 p.m. ET, while earlier coverage will be available on CBS Sports Network beginning at 10 a.m. ET.

On the iconic 16th hole, Augusta National will commemorate a historical moment as they mirror the pin placement of Jack Nicklaus‘s legendary 40-foot birdie from 1975. This positioning adds a nostalgic element to the round as fans recall past Masters moments.

With McIlroy aiming for a career Grand Slam and a prestigious green jacket, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The tournament’s total purse this year has been raised to $20 million, with the winner set to receive $4.2 million. The atmosphere promises to deliver a dramatic conclusion as the excitement builds.

As the final round unfolds, viewers will be glued to their screens, eager to see who triumphs at one of golf’s most revered tournaments.