You could not script a better final pairing at Augusta National for the 2025 Masters Tournament.
AUGUSTA, Ga. — Does it get any better than this for golf fans?
Golf enthusiasts were treated to an electric day at Augusta National, where Rory McIlroy surged to the top of the leaderboard early on with six consecutive threes — a historic milestone in Masters history.
Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau showcased his prowess, opening with two birdies and finishing strong with three more birdies in his last four holes, securing his third consecutive sub-70 round — a feat unmatched by any other player in the field.
DeChambeau sank a long putt on the 18th hole, reaching 10-under par and trailing McIlroy by just two strokes as they head into the final round.
Unlike their previous encounter last summer at Pinehurst No. 2, where DeChambeau edged out McIlroy by one stroke, these two golfing superstars will compete together in the final pairing this time.
“It will be the grandest stage that we’ve had in a long time, and I’m excited for it,” DeChambeau remarked about the opportunity.
“We both want to win really, really badly, and there are many great players behind us too. We must be mindful of that and focus on executing our golf shots effectively.”
“The atmosphere with the patrons is going to be electric,” he added.
The patrons were extraordinary on Saturday afternoon, creating deafening cheers, especially when McIlroy made his impressive moves.
Eagle for the solo lead. #themasters pic.twitter.com/gzdEIgccma
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April 12, 2025
The loudest cheer came on the par-5 2nd hole, when McIlroy chipped in from beyond the green for an eagle.
This remarkable shot also gave him the lead, prompting many patrons to wonder, “Is this really Rory’s year?”
One enthusiastic patron exclaimed, “I want Rory to win so badly.”
“It’s incredible to have their support. These patrons and galleries are a pleasure to play in front of every year,” McIlroy shared.
“They are some of the most knowledgeable golf fans we encounter. It’s a joy to compete before them, and tomorrow’s final group is sure to be a bit rowdy and loud. I’ll need to stay focused and keep my head down, approaching tomorrow with the same mindset I’ve had for the past three days.”
McIlroy has been striving to complete the career Grand Slam for 11 years, ever since his victory at the Open Championship in 2014. He only needs to win a Green Jacket to achieve this milestone, joining legends like Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods.
Although McIlroy has not claimed a major title since then, he has faced significant challenges, particularly at St. Andrews in 2022, Los Angeles Country Club in 2023, and the previous year’s heartbreaking loss.
“I must remind myself that there’s still a long way to go,” McIlroy noted.
“I know all too well what can occur on the final day here. I came in with the mindset of being the most complete version of myself as a golfer, and I just need to keep that in perspective and trust in my ability to handle whatever situation arises tomorrow.”
It’s important to highlight that the last eight Masters champions have emerged from the final pairing, with the last winner not doing so being Danny Willett in 2016, when Jordan Spieth faltered on the 12th hole.
Thus, history suggests that it will likely be one of these two golfing titans.
McIlroy and DeChambeau will tee off at 2:30 p.m. ET. The entire sporting world will be watching as these two most popular players battle for the coveted Green Jacket on golf’s most hallowed grounds.
Does it get any better than this for golf fans?
It certainly does not.
