Rory McIlroy is aiming for a more relaxed mental approach during the last day of the Masters tournament, even as the current titleholder admits he must perform significantly better than in his third round to keep the Green Jacket. His six-stroke advantage vanished on Saturday, leaving him level with Cameron Young atop the standings as they head into the fourth round. McIlroy appeared below his peak form with a score of one-over par 73. Nevertheless, the player from Northern Ireland can draw inspiration from his victory at the same location in 2025.
“I expect to play with greater freedom, as if I already possess a Green Jacket, which is true,” McIlroy stated. “I need to recall that occasionally. The grouping should feel less intense, and the overall environment will be somewhat calmer.
“I’m not concerned about it. I’d prefer a larger margin, but I feel at ease. I was paired with Cam for the opening two days, and facing him again tomorrow should suit us both well.
“I remain tied for the leading score entering tomorrow, which is important to remember, but I recognize I’ll need to elevate my game to contend for the win.”
After finishing his media commitments, McIlroy went directly to the practice area at Augusta National to address issues in his swing. He experienced misses to both sides during parts of the third round.
“There’s still much to play for,” McIlroy continued. “This course can be challenging when you’re not fully in rhythm, requiring resilience. I managed that on the front nine with several solid par saves. I just understand I must improve tomorrow to stay in the hunt.
“For me, it’s about maintaining movement in my lower body. Ensuring my lower body advances through the strike should resolve the problem.”
Young, who posted a third-round score of 65, hopes to follow in McIlroy’s footsteps from the previous year by securing victories at the Players Championship and the Masters in quick succession. He minimized the importance of this possible milestone.
“That doesn’t assure me anything ahead,” Young remarked. “I’m not entitled to success. Previous achievements don’t determine tomorrow’s outcome.
“Although there are many encouraging aspects from those tournaments, I need to earn whatever results come tomorrow, and the approach I know best is to tackle the day as I have the past three.”
