Masters Round 1: McIlroy, Burns Share Lead

Opening Day at Augusta

Defending champion Rory McIlroy posted a 67, joining Sam Burns at 5‑under through 18 holes Thursday, April 9. Their paired scores put them atop a field where 18 players were at 1‑under or better.

The Rest of the Board

Scottie Scheffler sat three strokes back at –2, while veteran Fred Couples, 66, birdied the par‑5 13th to climb to the same total and tie for ninth with Xander Schauffele, Shane Lowry, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas. Jack Nicklaus briefly led with early birdies on holes 2 and 3 before falling back.

Notable Storylines

Julio Olazabal of Spain became the oldest first‑time starter in Masters history, walking to the first green with caddie Javier Corbalán. Justin Rose recorded his 10th top‑10 finish at Augusta, a decade‑short of Jack Nicklaus’ record of 16.

The tournament runs through April 12, with the leaderboard expected to shift as the field navigates the iconic Amen Corner.