Resilient Rory McIlroy right back in the Masters hunt

Rory McIlroy teeing off on the fourth tee during the second round of the 2025 Masters tournament on April 11. PHOTO: EPA-EFE

UPDATED Apr 12, 2025, 02:59 PM

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AUGUSTA – Rory McIlroy breathed new life into his bid to complete a career Grand Slam at this week’s Masters with a stunning trip through Augusta National’s famed Amen Corner on April 11 that left his opening-round stumble a distant memory.

Seven off the lead to start the day, the Northern Irishman was just two off the pace when he walked off the course, as he returned a bogey-free six-under 66 – the best score of the day – following four birdies and an eagle.

With a six-under 138 overall score, he claimed a share of third place alongside Canadian Corey Conners (70), one stroke behind Bryson DeChambeau (68) and two shots back of halfway leader Justin Rose (71). Defending champion Scottie Scheffler (71) is among four players tied for fifth at five under.

McIlroy had arrived at the year’s first Major in top form and a favourite to complete golf’s set of four Majors on his 11th attempt, but he cut a dejected figure as he stumbled home with double-bogeys at 15 and 17 in the opening round.