- Rory McIlroy leads the 2025 Masters at 12-under after back-to-back 66s.
- Bryson DeChambeau trails by two shots after a strong finish in Round 3.
- The two will meet in the final pairing, marking a rematch of last year’s U.S. Open.
- Corey Conners sits third at 8-under, followed by Ludvig Aberg and Patrick Reed at 6-under.
- The final round promises a dramatic showdown as both players chase their first Masters title.
McIlroy and DeChambeau Set for Final Round Duel
The 2025 Masters at Augusta National has set the stage for a thrilling final round, with Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau leading the charge. McIlroy, chasing his first green jacket and a career Grand Slam, holds a two-shot lead at 12-under par after a stellar third round. DeChambeau, known for his power and precision, sits at 10-under, ready to challenge McIlroy in the final pairing on Sunday.
Contrasting Styles Define the Leaders
McIlroy and DeChambeau’s approaches to the game could not be more different. McIlroy has focused on maintaining a calm and composed demeanor, blocking out distractions and staying in his “bubble.” His Saturday performance included a remarkable eagle on the 15th hole, part of a birdie-eagle-birdie streak that propelled him to the top of the leaderboard. McIlroy’s consistency and finesse have been key to his success this week.
In contrast, DeChambeau thrives on energy and momentum. His third round was highlighted by a 50-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole, capping off a strong finish. Known for his analytical approach and powerful drives, DeChambeau has embraced the excitement of Augusta, feeding off the crowd’s energy. His ability to capitalize on key moments has kept him within striking distance of McIlroy.
Other Contenders in the Mix
While McIlroy and DeChambeau headline the leaderboard, other players remain in contention. Canadian Corey Conners, an Augusta specialist with three top-10 finishes in his last six starts, sits third at 8-under. Last year’s runner-up Ludvig Aberg and 2018 champion Patrick Reed are tied for fourth at 6-under, keeping the pressure on the leaders.
Defending champion Scottie Scheffler, Australia’s Jason Day, and 2019 Open champion Shane Lowry are among the players tied at 5-under. Each of these golfers has the potential to make a final-round charge, adding to the drama of Masters Sunday.
A Rematch with History
The final pairing of McIlroy and DeChambeau is being billed as a rematch of last year’s U.S. Open, where McIlroy faltered in the final holes, allowing DeChambeau to claim victory. This time, the stakes are even higher, with both players seeking their first Masters title. For McIlroy, a win would complete his career Grand Slam, a feat achieved by only five players in history. For DeChambeau, it would be a validation of his unconventional approach to the game.
“I think the big thing is not to make it a rematch and stay in my own little world,” McIlroy said after his third round. “There are a few other people on that leaderboard who can make a run, so I just have to do what I’ve been doing.”
Key Moments from Round 3
McIlroy’s third round was a masterclass in precision and composure. He opened with a birdie-eagle-birdie-par-birdie stretch, becoming the first player in Masters history to record six straight threes on his scorecard. His eagle on the 15th, set up by a towering six-iron from 205 yards, was one of the shots of the tournament.
DeChambeau, meanwhile, showcased his resilience and flair for the dramatic. After a slow start, he birdied three of his last four holes, including a remarkable putt from the fringe on the 18th. His ability to recover from setbacks and finish strong has been a hallmark of his game this week.
Final Round Expectations
As McIlroy and DeChambeau prepare to tee off in the final pairing, all eyes will be on their contrasting styles and how they handle the pressure of Augusta National. McIlroy’s focus and consistency will be tested against DeChambeau’s power and aggression. Both players have the skill and determination to claim the green jacket, but only one will emerge victorious.
With a strong field of contenders and the unpredictable nature of Augusta’s back nine, the final round promises to be a memorable conclusion to the 2025 Masters. Golf fans around the world will be watching as history unfolds at one of the sport’s most iconic venues.