McIlroy Leads Masters 2025, DeChambeau Eyes Dramatic Comeback

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Rory McIlroy will enter Sunday’s final round of the 2025 Masters with a two-stroke lead, chasing his first green jacket to complete a career Grand Slam. McIlroy, who finished the third round at 12-under par after a 6-under 66, is being closely pursued by Bryson DeChambeau, who remains hot on his heels at 10-under following a strong round of 69.

After starting his day with five birdies, including a stunning eagle at the second hole, McIlroy looked to be in control with a five-shot lead at one point. However, a late surge from DeChambeau, capped off by a remarkable 16-yard putt from the fringe at the 18th hole, closed the gap to two shots as he concluded the round.

“Rory’s playing some incredible golf right now,” said DeChambeau, acknowledging the challenge ahead. “It’s going to be a tough battle tomorrow, and I can’t wait to see what comes about.”

McIlroy’s journey to this moment hasn’t been without its challenges. As a two-time PGA champion and 2011 U.S. Open winner, he is seeking to join the ranks of golfing legends such as Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus, both of whom completed the modern Grand Slam. “I’m not going to shy away from it,” McIlroy stated regarding the pressure he faces. “Situations like tomorrow are the reason I work hard and get up and practice.”

In a contrasting note, Justin Rose started the tournament strong but faced adversity on Saturday, finishing with a disappointing 75 to land at 5-under. Rose, previously leading after the first two rounds, now finds himself seven strokes off the pace.

“I had a little wobble around the middle of the round, but I steadied myself,” McIlroy said, reflecting on his performance. “It was a great Saturday, and I’m excited for tomorrow.”

Augusta National, known for its challenging conditions, typically does not favor older competitors, making McIlroy’s current position even more significant as he seeks to secure his legacy. Historical data reveals that the last 37 Masters champions have all entered the final round within the top five.

As McIlroy prepares to tackle the final round, he is mindful of the psychological hurdles posed by past failures in major tournaments, especially after the heartbreaking loss to DeChambeau at the 2024 U.S. Open. “Can McIlroy overcome the heartbreak?” pondered journalist Gabby Herzig. “The answer is that it will not. McIlroy isn’t injured. He doesn’t have ‘scar tissue.’ But he is human.”

On the opposite end, players like Corey Conners will be eyeing an opportunity to capitalize on any missteps from the leaders. Conners finished at 2-under on Saturday, entering the day four shots back of McIlroy. He expressed confidence in his performance, stating, “I just stuck to my game plan. I felt I did a good job.”

With McIlroy and DeChambeau set to tee off in the final pairing at 2:30 PM ET on Sunday, the anticipation surrounding their matchup is palpable. “Tomorrow is going to be a tough battle,” DeChambeau reiterated. “We’re fighting, you know?”

As Augusta National prepares for a thrilling conclusion to this year’s Masters, the stakes could not be higher for either player. McIlroy looks to banish past demons, while DeChambeau aims for a repeat of his previous dramatic come-from-behind victory.