The 89th playing of the Masters began on Thursday at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, which kicked-off with the annual ceremonial tee shot from Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson.
As the quest for the iconic green jacket began, England veteran Justin Rose took an early lead finished with 65 in the first round of the Masters — tying his career low on the course. Rose hit eight birdies to go seven-under par.
World No. 1 and reigning Masters champion Scottie Scheffler seeking to become just the fourth player to successfully defend his title, and the youngest player since Jack Nicklaus with three green jackets. Scheffler played his first nine in 3 under to match the tournament record for a defending champion, highlighted by a 60-footer for birdie at the par-3 fourth. Scheffler finished the 1st round 4-under.
Rory McIlroy, the sentimental choice with only a Masters title keeping him from the career Grand Slam, arrived at the par-5 15th hole at 4-under par. However, a pair of double bogeys on No. 15 and No. 17 brought him to par, and erased his lead over the rest of the field — ending the day at an even 0.
The first two rounds of the Masters will be shown by ESPN, while CBS will pick up coverage for the final two rounds this weekend. Tournament coverage is also simulcast on Masters.com, the Masters app, ESPN+ and Paramount+ each day.
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