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 with Sam Burns after the first round. McIlroy carded a 67, which included 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, who finished runner-up to McIlroy last year, is among a group of players three shots off the lead, including Shane Lowry and world No 1 Scottie Scheffler. Bryson DeChambeau had a disappointing day, shooting a four-over 76, while former champion Jon Rahm struggled to a 78. McIlroy found momentum after a slow start, with successive birdies helping him reach the turn in 34. He then started a fresh birdie burst by taking advantage of the par-five 13th, before another birdie at the next took him to four under with four holes to play. McIlroy avoided a repeat of last year's expensive finish when he took advantage of the par-five 15th to pull level with Burns. Only 16 players broke par in firm and fast conditions, with McIlroy and Burns setting the pace.