In the opening round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club, England's Justin Rose set a new record by leading for the fifth time after 18 holes without securing a Masters victory. Rose carded a 7-under-par 65, establishing a three-shot lead over defending champion Scottie Scheffler, who finished with a 4-under 68. This performance marked Rose's fifth time leading or co-leading after the first round at the Masters, surpassing Jack Nicklaus' record of five such instances without a win.
Scheffler's 68 placed him alongside Canada's Corey Conners and Sweden's Ludvig Åberg, who also shot 68s. Bryson DeChambeau demonstrated his prowess with a 69, tying for fifth place.
Rory McIlroy, aiming for a career Grand Slam, started strong with three birdies on the front nine but struggled on the back nine, finishing with double bogeys on the 15th and 17th holes to end the day at even par.
His double bogey at 15 was especially frustrating as his approach shot left him with a good chance at birdie. However the course had different plans as his chip never slowed down and ran off the green into the water behind the hole.
A notable highlight was Fred Couples' performance; at age 65, he carded a 1-under 71, marking 42 years since his first under-par round at the Masters in 1983, setting a new record for the longest span between rounds under par in tournament history.
In an unusual incident, Max Homa's shot on the eighth hole struck an Augusta marshal, leading to a par but ultimately finishing with a two-over 72, tying for 51st place.
Overall, the first round showcased both veteran experience and emerging talent, setting the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.
