McIlroy Takes Early Lead at Augusta as DeChambeau Struggles

Rory McIlroy, the defending champion, made a strong start to his bid for back-to-back Masters titles, sharing the lead with Sam Burns after the opening round at Augusta National. McIlroy carded a 67, featuring five birdies in an eight-hole stretch, to finish five under par. He is joined at the top by Burns, with Jason Day, Patrick Reed, and Kurt Kitayama two shots back in tied-third. Justin Rose, Shane Lowry, and world No 1 Scottie Scheffler are also in contention, but Bryson DeChambeau had a nightmare start, shooting a four-over 76. McIlroy found momentum after a slow start, with successive birdies helping him reach the turn in 34. He then started a fresh birdie burst, taking advantage of the par-five 13th and eventually pulling level with Burns. McIlroy avoided a repeat of last year's expensive finish, taking advantage of the par-five 15th to join Burns at the top. 'I felt like I got a lot out of my round,' McIlroy said. 'It started pretty scrappy, but I stayed patient and leaned heavily on my experience.' Only 16 players broke par in firm and fast conditions, with DeChambeau and former champion Jon Rahm struggling to 76 and 78 respectively. McIlroy is aiming to join Jack Nicklaus, Sir Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods as the only players to retain the Green Jacket.