Rory McIlroy opened Thursday’s Masters with a five-under 67, pulling even with Sam Burns for the joint lead after a frantic first round. The 36‑year‑old was one of only 16 competitors to finish under par in a field of 91, and his birdie streak between holes eight and fifteen demonstrated he’s back in serious contention heading into day two.

The victory last April still feels fresh, and a back‑to‑back Masters would place him alongside Nick Faldo, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods. After a tentative start, McIlroy recovered, birdying all four par‑fives despite missing fairways and converting three short‑game saves into birdies. The round marked his lowest opening score at Augusta since 2011, underscoring his renewed confidence.

Justin Rose, three strokes back, and world No.1 Scottie Scheffler, two under, both posted solid rounds, keeping them within striking distance of the leaders. Rose’s top‑10 finish marked his tenth opening‑day appearance inside the cut line, while Scheffler’s steady 70 showed he remains a contender despite recent wobble. McIlroy’s early surge now forces the leaderboard to tighten around the defending champion as the tournament rolls on.