Justin Rose Leads Masters After First Round at 7-Under

Justin Rose took the lead in the first round of the Masters Tournament with an impressive 7-under 65, marking his best performance at Augusta National. He started strong, making three consecutive birdies, and despite a bogey on the 18th, he ended the day three shots ahead of defending champion Scottie Scheffler and Ludvig Aberg, who both finished at 4-under. Rose, who is aiming for his first green jacket, reflected on the significance of this opportunity at 44 years old, acknowledging that time is running out for him to win major tournaments. Scheffler, who played a bogey-free round, expressed confidence despite recent struggles due to a hand injury. Rory McIlroy, in pursuit of a career Grand Slam, faced setbacks with late double bogeys, finishing with a 72. Notably, 65-year-old Fred Couples made history by becoming the oldest player to break par in a round at the Masters.