As the 2025 Masters heads into its final round, Jason Day remains an outside contender, but he’s not counting himself out just yet. After carding a one-under 71 on Saturday, Day sits at five under, trailing leader Rory McIlroy by seven shots. The Australian golfer has been steady throughout the tournament, making just three bogeys so far, but he’s left to ponder missed birdie opportunities that could have brought him closer to the top.
Day’s performance on Saturday was highlighted by a chip-in birdie at the par-4 14th hole, showcasing his skill under pressure. However, he also faced an awkward moment at the par-3 16th, where he opted to chip from the green rather than putt, a decision that drew criticism from some golf fans. Despite the challenges, Day remains hopeful, stating, “Anything can happen at Augusta on Sunday.”
With McIlroy leading the charge, aiming to complete a career Grand Slam, Day recognizes the significance of the final round. “I mean, it’s low,” Day said regarding his expectations for a winning score, emphasizing that his chances depend heavily on what McIlroy does. “You can climb your way up pretty quick,” he added, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the Masters.
Day’s respect for McIlroy is evident as he tipped his cap to the Northern Irishman, who has been a dominant force throughout the tournament. McIlroy, who last won a major in 2014, is looking to break free from his Masters struggles, having finished in the top five three times without a victory. “Yes, if he goes ahead and wins it tomorrow,” Day affirmed when asked if McIlroy deserves to be mentioned alongside legends like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus.
As the final round approaches, the atmosphere at Augusta National is charged with anticipation. Day’s experience at the Masters, having finished T2 in 2011 and consistently placing well in previous years, gives him a unique perspective on the challenges of the course. “Sundays at Augusta are unlike any other tournament. You just never know what potentially could happen,” Day remarked, acknowledging the pressure that builds on the final day.
Despite his struggles in the past, including injuries that have hindered his performance, Day has shown resilience. He captured his 13th PGA Tour victory at the 2023 AT&T Byron Nelson and finished T2 at the Open Championship that same year. His recent form has improved, with better finishes at the Masters in the last two years, indicating a return to competitive golf.
Meanwhile, Day’s fellow competitor, Min Woo Lee, had a rough day, shooting a five-over par 77, which dropped him out of contention. Lee started strong with a birdie at the third hole but quickly fell victim to the notorious Augusta pressure, making six bogeys and incurring a penalty stroke for causing his ball to move on the 13th fairway. “Playing Augusta is already tough,” Lee expressed, reflecting on the challenges he faced.
As the final round looms, Day remains focused on his game plan. He understands the importance of getting into contention on the back nine, where anything can happen. “Just get yourself into contention on the back side [on Sunday]. Anything happens on the back side,” he advised, drawing from his years of experience at the Masters.
With the crowd behind him, Day hopes to leverage the energy of the fans to propel himself forward. “I know that if you shoot a low one, you can use the crowd as momentum,” he said, recognizing the role that support plays in a golfer’s performance.
As for McIlroy, Day acknowledges the challenges he poses. “He seems like he’s very focused and level-headed right now,” Day noted, highlighting the Northern Irishman’s determination to finally secure his green jacket. McIlroy’s journey has been marked by near misses, including a heartbreaking collapse in 2011 when he led by four shots heading into the back nine.
As the sun rises on Sunday, April 13, 2025, all eyes will be on Augusta National, where the final round promises to deliver drama and excitement. Day, with a mix of hope and experience, is ready to seize any opportunity that comes his way. “I’m hoping they put the pin in that little gully on the right there. Eight, nine, there’s definite opportunities out there to make birdie,” he said, looking forward to the challenges ahead.
With the leaderboard set and the stakes high, the final round of the Masters is shaping up to be a thrilling conclusion to this year’s tournament. Can Jason Day mount a comeback and challenge Rory McIlroy’s lead? Only time will tell as the final round unfolds.
