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McIlroy leans on experience to share Masters lead

McIlroy hit only five of 14 fairways in Thursday's first round but still tied for the lead — his strongest Augusta opening since 2011.

Published Apr 9, 2026, 5:57 PM EDT | WFMZZ

Rory McIlroy found just five of 14 fairways in Thursday's opening round at the Masters but still managed to grab a share of the lead. It is his best start at Augusta National since 2011, a result he achieved by leaning on experience despite a scrappy day from the tee.