Rory McIlroy Shies Away from ‘Rematch’ Talk Ahead of Masters Showdown with Bryson DeChambeau
Rory McIlroy aims to prevent the final round of the Masters from becoming a “rematch” with Bryson DeChambeau as he seeks to achieve the career grand slam.
McIlroy recorded his second consecutive 66 at Augusta National, maintaining a two-shot advantage over DeChambeau, who triumphantly outperformed the Holywood golfer in a thrilling finish to claim his second US Open title at Pinehurst last year.
“It was an incredible day that places me in a superb position heading into tomorrow,” McIlroy remarked after a third round that featured six consecutive threes and eagles on the second and 15th holes.
“The key is not to view it as a rematch, but rather to remain focused in my own little world.”
Starting the third round two shots behind his Ryder Cup teammate Justin Rose, McIlroy birdied the first hole, chipped in for an eagle on the second, and added birdies on the third and fifth.
“It was obviously a fantastic start,” McIlroy continued. “I hit two perfect shots on the first and made the conversion, three perfect shots on the second, and three perfect shots on the third.”
“From finishing yesterday afternoon to teeing off today, there’s a lot of excitement and nervous energy, and to kick off like I did was incredible.”
“I had a slight hiccup around the turn, but that par putt on 11 was crucial for regaining momentum. After that, I focused on capitalizing on the par fives coming in, and I managed to do so.”
Reflecting on his Saturday evening in 2011, when he held a four-shot lead only to collapse with a final round of 80, McIlroy admitted he had no specific recollection but planned to watch an episode of Bridgerton and stay off his phone that night.
“I must remind myself that there’s still a long way to go,” he stated. “Like anyone else, I understand what can happen on the final day here.”
“I came into this tournament discussing being the most complete version of myself as a golfer, and I just need to keep reassuring myself that whatever situation arises tomorrow, I’ll be able to manage it.”
Be sure to follow our final day Masters tracker right here on rte.ie/sport on Sunday evening.
