Every year golf fans hope for a classic battle on the weekend at The Masters between some of the sport’s biggest names. At this point in the tournament, it’s looking like they might get their wish. Justin Rose holds a one-shot lead going into the final round at Augusta National, but he’s not alone. Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau and Scottie Scheffler are all within striking distance.
Rose shot a 3-under 66 Friday, the third straight round of par or better to extend his advantage at Augusta. He birdied holes 5, 7, and 8, though he nearly had another birdie at the 13th, pushing his putt and settling for par. Ludvig Aberg made a bogey-free 68, which included a birdie at the 18th, his best hole of the day. Aberg’s consistency could give him a chance at a victory if both McIlroy and DeChambeau have a hiccup or two Sunday.
In fact, a lot of players are having strong rounds. Brooks Koepka had a quadruple bogey on the 18th, but he was still in contention at 2 over after his first round of 69.
A few fan favorites also are making a good case for the green jacket. Bernhard Langer and Fred Couples are both 1-under after the first round, with the pair of elder statesmen vying to become the oldest player to win the tournament since Jack Nicklaus won at age 46 in 1986.