Justin Rose turned back the clock in spectacular fashion at Augusta, torching the famed Georgia layout with a sensational 7-under-par 65 to grab the opening-round lead at the Masters. The Englishman was pure class, rattling in eight birdies and looking every bit the seasoned pro who knows how to handle the heat.
“I felt in control out there,” Rose said, cool as you like. “The course was firm, fast, and I just let the irons do the talking. It’s nice to see the putter behave too!”
It’s the fifth time Rose has led after day one at Augusta, and judging by the swagger in his step, he’s not planning to fade quietly this time around.
Lurking ominously is ice-cold Scottie Scheffler, the reigning Masters champ and two-time winner, who coasted to a bogey-free 68 without breaking sweat. The Texan didn’t need fireworks — just his usual blend of unshakeable calm and robotic consistency. He’s tied second and looking dangerous.
Rory Looking In Great Touch .. Until!
Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy’s round was a tale of two halves. The Northern Irishman looked in majestic form for most of the day, thumping drives miles down the fairway and attacking pins with real intent. But Augusta bit back. Double bogeys on 15 and 17 undid all his good work and left him languishing at level par — a frustrating finish after such a promising start.
Hero Dubai Desert Classic champion, Tyrrell Hatton, kept the English flag flying with a gritty 3-under 69. “Felt solid today,” Hatton grinned. “Didn’t get too angry, which is always a win around here!”
So it’s Rose out in front, Scheffler stalking, Rory regrouping, and Hatton right in the mix — the 2025 Masters is already shaping up to be an absolute belter.
