At Augusta National, expectations crumble faster than the edges of its devilish greens. The opening round of the 2025 Masters proved this timeless truth once again. Players arriving with confidence left the course shaken. Others came with questions and departed with answers.
The ceremonial tee shots from Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, and Gary Player kicked off the 89th Masters in style. Then the real action began. Players faced pristine conditions with sunshine and little wind, though Augusta’s greens remained characteristically firm and unforgiving.
While some conquered the course, others were thoroughly humbled. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler looked comfortable from the start. Justin Rose surged to a commanding lead. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy‘s quest for the career Grand Slam took a devastating turn.
Let’s dive into the most unforgettable moments from an action-packed Thursday at Augusta National.
1. Justin Rose’s record-breaking 65
Rose stormed to the top of the leaderboard with a stunning 7-under 65. The 44-year-old Englishman started hot with three consecutive birdies. He maintained his momentum with another birdie streak from holes 8 through 10. Despite a bogey on the final hole, Rose finished three strokes ahead of his nearest competitors. This marked Rose’s fifth time leading after the opening round at Augusta. He broke Jack Nicklaus’s long-standing record in the process. “Golf is not going to get easier for me in the next years,” Rose admitted after his round. His performance was a masterclass in precision putting and strategic course management. The veteran showed why experience counts at Augusta National.
Golf – The Masters – Augusta National Golf Club – Augusta, Georgia, U.S. – April 9, 2021 England’s Justin Rose looks onto the 3rd green during the second round REUTERS/Mike Segar
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