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Full Noise by SN
Important update on 1476AMRoaring Rory McIlroy grabs early Masters clubhouse lead
Darren Walton, AAP •  April 10th, 2026 9:00 am
Rory McIlroy has made a storming start to the defence of his Masters title at Augusta | Photo: EPA
Rory McIlroy has set scorching hot Augusta National ablaze with an ominous start to his Masters title defence.
The world No.2 made light work of the treacherous conditions to bag six birdies and join American Sam Burns as the early first-round clubhouse leader on Thursday (Friday NZ time).
McIlroy placed the field on notice with a five-under 67 that was five shots superior to his level-par opening last year when the Northern Irish superstar finally completed the rare career grand slam with an emotion-charged play-off win over Justin Rose.
Burns was equally impressive in going bogey-free in his round of 67.
Australian Jason Day posted a steely 69 to be sitting equal third, two shots off the pace, with Americans Kurt Kitayama and 2018 champion Patrick Reed.
Reed made a lightning start with eagles on both front-nine par-5s but let it slip coming home.
Ryan Fox endured a difficult start to his campaign, carding a five over 77 in the opening round and leaving himself with plenty of work to do to make the cut.
In-form dual major winner Xander Schauffele and Day's playing partner Shane Lowry were among the big names a stroke further back and safely in the clubhouse at two under.
Among the afternoon starters, world No.1 Scottie Scheffler was also going well on three under after eight holes, but pre-tournament fancy Bryson DeChambeau struggled with a four-over 76.
