Masters Round 3: McIlroy, Young Lead Dramatic Charge

Rory McIlroy's six-shot lead evaporates as Cameron Young surges into a tie for the lead heading into the final round.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:50am

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A cubist-style painting depicting the final round of the Masters golf tournament, with overlapping geometric shapes representing the fairways, sand traps, and swinging golf clubs of the competing players.The final round of the Masters promises an intense battle as several top players vie for the green jacket.Augusta Today

Rory McIlroy entered the day with a commanding six-shot lead, but a disastrous stretch on the back nine saw him relinquish the advantage. Cameron Young, the reigning Players Championship winner, fired a brilliant 65 to pull even with McIlroy atop the leaderboard. Several other contenders, including Sam Burns and Scottie Scheffler, are within striking distance heading into the final round at Augusta.

Why it matters

The Masters is one of golf's most prestigious events, and the dramatic shift in the leaderboard on Moving Day has set the stage for an exciting conclusion. McIlroy is seeking his first green jacket, while Young has a chance to claim his first major championship. The final round will likely come down to which player can handle the pressure of Augusta National's back nine.

The details

McIlroy's lead evaporated after he went double bogey-bogey on holes 11 and 12, allowing Young to surge into a tie for the lead. Young, who entered the day eight shots off the pace, carded a flawless 65 to climb into contention. Sam Burns, Scottie Scheffler, and Shane Lowry are also within striking distance, setting the stage for a thrilling final round.

  • On Saturday, McIlroy held a six-shot lead entering the day.
  • In a 24-minute span on the back nine, McIlroy's lead was erased as Young made a birdie on the 16th hole.
  • The final round will take place on Sunday, April 14, 2026.

The players

Rory McIlroy

The reigning Masters champion, seeking his fifth major title and first green jacket.

Cameron Young

The 24-year-old American, who won the Players Championship last month and is now in contention for his first major championship.

Sam Burns

The 29-year-old American, who is one shot back and looking to claim his first major title.

Scottie Scheffler

The world's top-ranked player, who is four shots back and seeking his third green jacket in just seven career Masters appearances.

Shane Lowry

The 35-year-old Irishman, who made a hole-in-one on the 6th hole on Saturday and is two shots back of the lead.

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What they’re saying

“We're just getting started.”

— Rory McIlroy

“If he wins, he would tie the largest 36-hole comeback for any Masters champion.”

— Justin Ray, Author

What’s next

The final round of the 90th Masters Tournament will take place on Sunday, April 14, 2026, with Rory McIlroy and Cameron Young tied for the lead. The winner will be determined over the course of 18 holes at Augusta National Golf Club.

The takeaway

The dramatic shift in the Masters leaderboard on Moving Day has set the stage for an exciting conclusion to the tournament. With several top players within striking distance, the final round is poised to be a nail-biter as the competitors battle for the coveted green jacket.