McIlroy Tied with Young After Surrendering Historic Lead at The Masters

Rory McIlroy's hopes of a consecutive Masters title were dealt a significant blow as he squandered a record six-shot lead, leaving him tied with Cameron Young heading into the final day. McIlroy, who began the weekend with the largest 36-hole lead in tournament history, saw his advantage evaporate after a disappointing Saturday at Augusta National. Young surged from eight shots back to take the clubhouse lead with a stunning seven-under 65, as McIlroy struggled to a third-round 73. The world No 2 will head into the final round level with Young on 11 under, with Sam Burns just a shot behind in third place. Shane Lowry, who carded a hole-in-one during his third-round 68, is among eight players within four strokes of the lead, while Justin Rose and Jason Day are tied for fifth. McIlroy's day began poorly, with a two-shot swing at the first hole, and he never fully recovered. Despite a brief resurgence with a birdie at the third, McIlroy's momentum was short-lived, and he dropped shots at the 11th and 12th holes. Young, meanwhile, charged into contention with a remarkable round, posting eight birdies and a lone bogey to grab the initiative. McIlroy will look to regroup and rediscover his form for the final round, which begins at 4:30 pm on Sunday. 'I'd have liked to be in a better position, but I still have a great chance,' McIlroy said. 'I'm in the final group, which is where I want to be. I just need to be a little better tomorrow if I'm going to win.'