Masters Golf: McIlroy and Burns Lead Early in Augusta

Rory McIlroy and Sam Burns share the first-round lead at the 2026 Masters Tournament after both carded a 5-under 67 on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Augusta National Golf Club.

For McIlroy, the opening round represented his best start at the Masters in 15 years. The Northern Ireland native entered the tournament as the defending champion and began his title defense by recording five birdies in an eight-hole stretch.

McIlroy’s Path to the Lead

Despite hitting only five fairways during his round, McIlroy managed to maintain momentum. A key moment occurred at the par-5 eighth hole, where he hit a 3-wood from the first cut over the hill and onto the green, setting up one of his five birdies.

According to reporting from the Associated Press, McIlroy is only the second player in the last 10 years to shoot a 67 while hitting only five fairways, following Hideki Matsuyama, who did so in 2021.

McIlroy attributed his composure during the round to the confidence gained from his previous victory. He noted that having already won the tournament provided a sense of freedom in his swing.

I think winning a Masters makes it easier to win your second one. I do,

Rory McIlroy

The defending champion has been visible in his green jacket throughout the week, wearing it during weekend activities, a news conference on Tuesday, April 8, 2026, and the Masters Club dinner.

It’s easier for me to make those swings and not worry about where it goes when I know that I can go to the Champions Locker Room and put my green jacket on at the end of the day,

Rory McIlroy

Tournament Standings and Context

Sam Burns matched McIlroy’s 5-under 67 to establish a two-way tie at the top of the leaderboard. The PGA Tour noted that the strong start from the reigning champion and Burns sets a challenging pace for the rest of the field.

Other notable performances from the opening round include Nick Taylor of Abbotsford, British Columbia, who is the top Canadian in the field and is currently tied for 10th place.

McIlroy is now attempting to become only the fourth player in the history of the tournament to win back-to-back titles at Augusta National.

The psychological shift in McIlroy’s game was noted by other players. Fred Couples mentioned to his caddie during the round that McIlroy might never lose the tournament again following his success last year.

The opening round saw various contenders navigating the course, including Scottie Scheffler and Justin Rose, as the field contends with tough scoring conditions to keep pace with the leaders.