DeChambeau sets up epic Masters showdown with McIlroy after thrilling finish
Bryson DeChambeau ignited Augusta on Saturday with a spectacular finish, setting the stage for a highly anticipated final-round duel with Rory McIlroy at the Masters. The pair will face off in a rematch of last year’s U.S. Open, where DeChambeau capitalized on McIlroy’s late collapse to claim his first major title.
DeChambeau earned his spot in Sunday’s final pairing by sinking an incredible 48-foot birdie putt from off the green at the par-four 18th hole, bringing him to 10 under par, just two shots behind McIlroy. This marks only the fourth time in the past 30 years that the final pairing of a major features two players with multiple major victories. It’s also a highly anticipated battle between two of golf's most popular figures.
"It will be the grandest stage that we've had in a long time, and I'm excited for it," DeChambeau said after his three-under-par 69.
Last year’s U.S. Open saw DeChambeau enter the final round with a three-shot lead, only to briefly lose it to McIlroy before the Northern Irishman faltered late. McIlroy missed out on his first major since 2014, while DeChambeau claimed victory. Since then, the two have had little interaction.
"Not really. He said congrats at the British Open," DeChambeau commented. "And that's pretty much it. We've been fine ever since. It's not really been an issue."
Now, DeChambeau is in the role of the challenger, and he’s relishing the opportunity to chase McIlroy. "Yeah, I think it's fun, feeling like you have to hit every single shot to the best of your ability, and you can't let off the gas pedal," DeChambeau said. "You just have to focus and play the best – absolute best golf you possibly can."
"When you're leading, it's a little different. I've had those times, as well. You attack that a little differently. But for me, I'll be chasing tomorrow. It will be a fun test."
DeChambeau’s electrifying performance was amplified by his ability to connect with the Augusta National fans. After making a birdie at the par-three 16th, he engaged with the crowd, feeding off their energy.
"Just getting the patrons going. Having a bit of fun with them. Makes me focus more," said DeChambeau. "It's a fun thing that whenever I feel like I feed into the crowd, especially the patrons here, it just – they give that energy back, and it's a cool feeling."
By the time DeChambeau walked off the 18th green, he was greeted by a throng of cheering fans offering high-fives, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a professional wrestler entering the ring.
"That's what dreams are made of right there," DeChambeau said of his dramatic finish. "Two behind, couldn't ask for more."
SportsLigue