Justin Rose could be a popular Masters pick this week. This is the tenth time he has taken this position at Augusta National. Rose has been turning in remarkable performances for many years now. At 44 years young, he passionately chases the one major victory that has slipped through his fingers.
Rose’s strong start to the tournament featured a first-round score of 68, his best opening round ever in Masters history. He impressed with poise and quality of play for the entire match. On the last hole, he had a 10-foot par putt on the line, the ball just catching the right edge of the cup before falling in. This moment did more than just deepen his points lead, it proved that he’s ready to fight for the championship again.
“I had to remind myself I was playing well,” said Rory McIlroy, another prominent figure in the tournament, highlighting the pressure felt by top players as they vie for a place in Masters history.
As Rose noted, Brooks Koepka’s early and stunning departure from the tournament has probably been the biggest story. His unexpected exit left many fans and analysts flabbergasted, as he seemed a likely candidate to be one of the toughest competitors this year. Just as the tournament itself has continued to surprise with shocking upsets and legendary performances, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
Rose is in the middle of a historic bid for victory. If he passes the test, he’ll be 44 years old and the second-oldest player to ever slip on the green jacket, behind only Jack Nicklaus—who won at 46 in 1986. Rose last experienced success on the biggest stage twelve years ago at the 2013 U.S. Open. His know-how will be key as he steers his way through the harrowing track at Augusta.
Closer to home, Bryson DeChambeau has been making headlines by following Rose’s footsteps. He’s done the truly incredible thing, though, and become the only player to post back-to-back sub-70 rounds. He ended just one stroke behind Rose and will be playing with him in Sunday’s final group. DeChambeau’s ability to stay competitive underscores the depth of talent present in this year’s tournament.
Canadian golfer Corey Conners had an extraordinary round of 70, a positive outlier on his statistical spread. That stunning performance catapulted his total to 6-under 138, good for a tie with McIlroy. It’s their steady, mistake-free play that almost always keeps them within striking distance as the tournament progresses.
That cutline of 2-over 146 also served as the end of Bernhard Langer’s legendary Masters run. At 67 years old, Langer’s elimination signals a poignant moment in golf history as he leaves behind a legacy as one of the tournament’s most respected figures.
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