Fri Apr 11 09:29:58 UTC 2025: ## Rose Leads Masters After Stunning First Round, McIlroy Stumbles
**Augusta, Georgia** – Justin Rose seized a commanding three-shot lead at the Masters Tournament after a dazzling first round of seven-under-par 65. The Englishman’s performance, marked by a remarkable 22 putts, equalled his best-ever Masters opening and surpasses Jack Nicklaus’ record for most first-round leads or co-leads at the tournament. Rose’s round included three consecutive birdies at the start and another three around the turn.
Chasing Rose are defending champion Scottie Scheffler, Ludvig Aberg, and Corey Conners, all tied for second at four-under-par. Scheffler, aiming for a historic Masters repeat, highlighted his round with a 62-foot birdie putt at the fourth and impressive par saves. Aberg and Conners also impressed with late birdies.
Rory McIlroy, vying for a career Grand Slam, experienced a disappointing day. After a promising start, a double-bogey on the 15th and another on the 17th derailed his round, leaving him with an even-par 72 and a significant seven shots behind Rose. This marks his first round with multiple double-bogeys or worse at the Masters since 2014.
Other notable performances include Jon Rahm’s three-over 75, Xander Schauffele’s 73, and a surprising one-under 71 from 65-year-old Fred Couples, who celebrated his 40th Masters appearance with an eagle on the 14th. Bryson DeChambeau, initially tied for second, finished four shots behind Rose after a late bogey.
Rose, who expressed delight with his solid play, is now the favourite heading into the second round, while McIlroy faces a considerable uphill battle to achieve his Grand Slam ambition. The tournament continues with high anticipation.
First Piper 