April 5, 2026, 5:14 p.m. ET
AUGUSTA, Ga. — As Gerry McIlroy struck his tee shot on No. 1, a shout got here from 20-feet behind. “Nice, dad,” hollered Rory, who was talking with patrons on the left rope line.
Moments earlier, the defending champion started his 2026 Masters preparation alongside his father and Augusta National member’s Jimmy Dunne and Michael Walrath. Walking (however not looping) with the foursome was Rory’s caddie, Harry Diamond.
After 9 holes, Rory confirmed that he and pops have been “down three” to the Green Jackets.
Sunday marked the primary time the place Rory may partake within the long-standing custom the place former winners are permitted to ask a visitor.
McIlroy selected dad.
Last April, Scottie Scheffler picked mother, Diane. This 12 months, Ben Crenshaw requested his supervisor, Scotty Sayers. Crenshaw solely performed 9 holes, after which commented on the state of his golf recreation.
“The only thing I can do these days is grow hair,” Gentle Ben mentioned.
The ninetieth Masters Tournament begins Thursday, April 9.
