Rory McIlroy's quest to complete the career Grand Slam has taken a shocking detour. After building the largest 36-hole lead in Masters history, McIlroy stumbled badly during Saturday's third round, surrendering all six shots of his advantage and finding himself tied atop the leaderboard with Cameron Young.
Golf Channel described the tournament as "suddenly and surprisingly no longer Rory McIlroy's victory lap." The Northern Irishman, who had played brilliantly through the first two rounds, appeared to lose control of his swing during the moving day round, spraying shots and hemorrhaging strokes to the field.
Young seized the opportunity, surging up the leaderboard with a blistering round to pull even. ESPN reported the tie at the top, setting up what promises to be one of the most dramatic final rounds in recent Masters history.
For McIlroy, the collapse echoes painful memories at Augusta National, where the Masters green jacket has eluded him throughout his career despite dominant performances at the other three majors. Golf Digest questioned whether he can rebuild his swing overnight, while supporters point out that he still shares the lead and will have every chance to close it out on Sunday.
The final round promises high drama, with McIlroy needing to summon his best golf under enormous pressure and Young looking to claim his first major championship.
