McIlroy Takes Early Lead at Augusta as DeChambeau Struggles

Rory McIlroy made a strong start to his title defense at The Masters, sharing the lead after the first round alongside Sam Burns. McIlroy, who is bidding to become the first back-to-back winner at Augusta since Tiger Woods, carded a 67 to finish five under par. The Northern Irishman was joined on five under by Burns, with Jason Day, Patrick Reed, and Kurt Kitayama a shot back in tied-third. Justin Rose, who finished runner-up to McIlroy last year, was within one of the lead until bogeys at his final two holes left him two under. Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau had a disastrous start, struggling to a four-over 76, while former champion Jon Rahm fared little better with a 78. McIlroy's round was marked by a strong finish, with five birdies in an eight-hole stretch, and he will be looking to build on his momentum in the second round. The Masters continues on Friday, with live coverage on Sky Sports.