Rory McIlroy shares Masters lead with Cameron Young after Saturday struggle
Defending champion Rory McIlroy saw his six-shot lead evaporate during the third round of The Masters, leaving him tied with Cameron Young heading into Sunday’s thrilling finale at Augusta National.
The Northern Irishman held a record advantage at the 36-hole stage but struggled for consistency off the tee on Saturday.
A soft bogey on the opening hole set the tone for a difficult afternoon where he scrambled to finish the day at 11 under par.
Young and chasing pack close the gap
American Cameron Young surged through the field to join the defending champion at the top of the leaderboard.
Three-time Green Jacket winner Sir Nick Faldo believes the tournament is now wide open, identifying seven genuine contenders for the title.
“There are seven guys who genuinely have a chance to win tomorrow,” Faldo said.
Former champion Patrick Reed piled on early pressure with three consecutive birdies to start his round, while a host of elite names linger within striking distance.
Scheffler, Rose and Lowry in contention
World number one Scottie Scheffler remains a serious threat, possessing the pedigree to mount a dramatic final-day charge.
England’s Justin Rose is also firmly in the mix, motivated by a third runners-up finish at the major last year.
Ireland’s Shane Lowry and Australian Jason Day complete the primary group of challengers hoping to capitalise on any further slips from the leaders.
‘I didn’t quite have it’
Despite the frustrating third round, the four-time major winner remains optimistic about retaining his crown.
“I knew today wasn’t going to be easy,” McIlroy said.
“The quality of the chasing pack was very obvious, and a lot of the guys went out and played superb golf.
“I didn’t quite have it today. Even from the first hole, making that sort of soft bogey, I was doing my best to hang on.”
The 36-year-old acknowledged he must improve his tee-to-green game to secure back-to-back victories at Augusta.
“I would have wanted to be in a better position going into tomorrow starting with a six-shot lead, but I still have a great chance,” he added.
“If I’m going to win tomorrow, I’m going to have to be a little bit better than I was today.”
