AFP – Rory McIlroy teed off in the final round of the Masters in search of an elusive first green jacket that would complete a career Grand Slam.
The 35-year-old from Northern Ireland, who has failed in 10 prior tries to complete the Slam at Augusta National, was on 12-under with a two-stroke lead over last-group playing partner Bryson DeChambeau.
It’s a rematch of a late duel with DeChambeau at last year’s United States Open that saw McIlroy bogey three of the last four holes, two of them misses from three feet or less, while DeChambeau saved par from a bunker at the 72nd hole to win the title.
“Just excited for the opportunity,” DeChambeau said . “It’s going to be a great battle.”
They will chase a record USD4.2 million winner’s prize from a record USD21 million purse, but so much more on the line for McIlroy.
