DeChambeau on the Rise for Masters, but Did He Unintentionally Aid McIlroy's Grand Slam Bid?

Bryson DeChambeau is entering The Masters as the in-form player, seeking to thwart Rory McIlroy's title defence, having potentially played a role in the Northern Irishman's Grand Slam victory last year. DeChambeau has secured back-to-back LIV Golf League titles and is a favourite to challenge for his third major title, a year after losing to McIlroy in the final round at Augusta National. McIlroy had squandered a two-shot lead on the first hole of a dramatic Sunday, where DeChambeau briefly led before finishing tied for fifth with a final-round 75. Former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley believes their rivalry contributed to McIlroy's Grand Slam success, stating, 'There's no doubt that playing with Bryson in the last round last year helped him more than hurt him.' McGinley attributed this to DeChambeau's past comments about McIlroy's final-round collapse at the US Open, saying, 'Bryson really did him a favour because he forced him into focus.' DeChambeau has posted top-10 finishes in six of his last eight majors and sits second in the LIV Golf League individual standings. McGinley noted, 'I think he's trending towards it [a major victory],' but emphasized the need for DeChambeau to improve his iron play. McIlroy, meanwhile, is looking to become the first player since Tiger Woods to successfully defend the Green Jacket, although his preparations have been hindered by injury and a struggle during his title defence at The Players. McGinley admitted, 'I think it [McIlroy's game] is off, to be honest,' and expressed concerns about the defending champion's ability to replicate his performance from last year.