AUGUSTA, Ga. — From the 15th fairway at Augusta National, Bryson DeChambeau had a clear view of Rory McIlroy`s progress.
McIlroy, on the green, executed a delicate second shot, leaving himself just six feet for an eagle. Though DeChambeau might not have seen the ball drop, the crowd`s roar signaled everything: McIlroy had secured his second eagle of the day, advancing to 12 under par, a significant five shots ahead of DeChambeau.
With only four holes remaining, catching McIlroy seemed improbable. However, it was Saturday at the Masters, and the two-time U.S. Open champion was focused on a singular goal.
“Get into that final pairing.”
DeChambeau responded to McIlroy`s eagle with a birdie on the 15th. At the 16th, after sinking another birdie putt, he paused to observe McIlroy walking ahead on the 17th fairway.
“Rory was moving ahead at 12 under, and I was in pursuit,” DeChambeau explained. “After my birdie, I looked up, and it was like saying, `I`m still in this. I`m not giving up.`”
And so, the stage is set again.
Almost a year after their dramatic U.S. Open finish at Pinehurst, where McIlroy faced disappointment and DeChambeau celebrated victory, they are poised for another major championship showdown on Sunday. This time, they will be in the final pairing, competing for the prestigious Masters title.
“I need to remember there are still 18 holes to play,” McIlroy stated, having just shot the day`s lowest round to lead DeChambeau by two strokes. “I, perhaps more than anyone, am aware of the unpredictable nature of the final day here.”
This contest isn`t about rivalry or tours; it`s simply about two elite golfers vying for golf`s most coveted prize on its grandest stage.
Their playing styles share similarities. Both can overpower courses with their drivers – ranking first and second in distance this week – and their scores often depend on the variability of their approach shots and putting. Yet, their personalities and approaches are starkly different.
This contrast was evident as they walked off the 18th green. McIlroy, after parring his final three holes, responded with restrained nods to the cheering crowd. DeChambeau, however, punctuated his round with an electrifying 48-foot birdie putt on 18, reacting with a fist pump and engaging with fans along the rope line.
“Engaging with the crowd sharpens my focus,” DeChambeau noted. “The energy exchange with the patrons is a fun and motivating experience.”
Technically, DeChambeau meticulously analyzes launch angles and ball speed, while McIlroy emphasizes the importance of feeling in control.
“For me, victory is achieving that feeling of control and being satisfied with my game,” McIlroy explained.
DeChambeau embraces the spotlight and projects confidence, while McIlroy openly discusses his anxieties and uses personal notes for encouragement. For relaxation, McIlroy prefers a John Grisham novel or a light TV show, while DeChambeau opts for James Bond films.
“Looking at my phone isn`t a problem for me,” mentioned DeChambeau, who maintains a popular YouTube channel.
While DeChambeau thrives on crowd energy, McIlroy recognizes the need to maintain focus and composure amidst the enthusiastic Masters patrons.
“Tomorrow`s final group will be lively and loud,” McIlroy predicted. “I need to stay focused within myself and keep my composure.”
DeChambeau, conversely, plans to embrace the crowd`s energy until it`s time to focus on his next shot.
“It`s about reacting naturally and being myself,” DeChambeau stated. “People may have their opinions, but I am simply different.”
Sunday will highlight these contrasts. Yet, a key difference is already apparent: DeChambeau has won two majors since McIlroy`s last major victory.
McIlroy`s past heartbreaks are well-documented, almost as much as his major wins from 2011-2014. From the 2011 Masters to recent near-misses, the journey to a career Grand Slam has been fraught with challenges. Now, he faces DeChambeau again, the same competitor who triumphed over him last year.
“That was 14 years ago,” McIlroy reflected on the 2011 Masters. “Thankfully, I have a short memory.”
On paper, 18 holes separate McIlroy from the Grand Slam. In reality, it`s a battle against past disappointments and a formidable opponent eager to seize the moment once more.
“We both desperately want to win. The atmosphere will be electric,” DeChambeau anticipates. “It`s set to be the most significant stage in a long time.”
