Rory McIlroy enters the final round of the 2025 Masters with a commanding three-shot lead over Justin DeChambeau, setting the stage for a dramatic and compelling conclusion to the season’s first major. The Northern Irishman’s consistent performance throughout the tournament has cemented his position at the top of the leaderboard, and while the challenge remains significant, his control and composure are undeniable.

McIlroy currently sits at -13, thanks to a remarkable turnaround after a disastrous start on the first hole. A stunning recovery on the eleventh, recognized by Justin Ray on Twitter, showcased his grit and determination, turning the tide of the round. That play, a near-impossible escape from the trees and water, effectively secured a three-shot advantage over DeChambeau, who is trailing at -10. The pressure is now squarely on DeChambeau to close the gap, a feat that will require a flawless final round.

Throughout the day, several key storylines have unfolded. Ludvig Aberg emerged as a significant contender, surging to -3 after three impressive birdies on the scoring holes, demonstrating his ability to compete with the game’s elite, while Shane Lowry experienced a setback, falling to -3 after a double bogey on the first. Patrick Reed, meanwhile, has been a standout, posting four consecutive birdies to turn in a strong round and remain in contention at -9.

Despite a solid performance, McIlroy hasn’t been without his challenges. A missed putt on the second hole, followed by a subsequent double bogey, highlighted the demanding nature of Augusta National. Yet, he quickly recovered, showcasing his mental fortitude and capitalizing on opportunities as they arose. His approach to the 10th, a masterful display of precision, resulted in a four-shot lead, demonstrating his unwavering confidence.