When McIlroy moved into a record six-shot lead at the halfway point of the tournament on Friday, it felt like this year’s Masters was going to see a different chapter written, one which demonstrated control rather than chaos.
Many predicted a procession for the defending champion going into Saturday’s third round. They should have known better.
Northern Ireland’s McIlroy saw his commanding lead evaporate during a dramatic day where he swung the door wide open to his rivals with a one-over-par 73.
On Sunday, he will go out in the final group level on 11 under with American Cameron Young. A dozen players are within six shots of the leaders. Buckle up.
“I knew it wouldn’t be easy, the quality of the chasing pack is obvious,” McIlroy, who is aiming to become only the fourth man to win successive Masters titles, said on Sky Sports.
“I would have wanted to be in a better position going into [Sunday, having] started out with a six-shot lead, but I’ve still got a great chance.
“I’m in the final group and that’s where you want to be.”
Last year’s nerve-jangling play-off win over England’s Justin Rose was classic McIlroy at the Masters – a rollercoaster ride where his bid for the career Grand Slam threatened to derail once again.
Holding on and finally landing the Green Jacket provided McIlroy, who is now 36, with a sense of liberation.
