Rory McIlroy heads into the final round of the 2026 Masters as the defending champion, bidding to become the first player since Tiger Woods in 2002 to win back-to-back green jackets. The Northern Irishman claimed his maiden Masters title in 2025, defeating Justin Rose in a sudden-death playoff to complete the career Grand Slam and secure his sixth major.
In his 18th appearance at Augusta National, McIlroy began strongly with a 67 to share the first-round lead. He built a record six-shot 36-hole advantage—the largest in Masters history—before a third-round 73 saw the lead evaporate, leaving him tied at 11-under with Cameron Young.
On Sunday, April 12, McIlroy extended his lead to 13-under with birdies around Amen Corner, tightening his grip on the tournament despite a tense approach at the 15th that nearly found the water. Chasers including Scottie Scheffler and Justin Rose trailed by two shots as the  Irish star navigated the closing holes.
With composure gained from last year’s breakthrough, McIlroy aims to close out a historic defense and cement his place among golf’s elite. A victory would mark a new chapter of dominance at Augusta.
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