‘Loose’ Rory McIlroy endures another day of frustration at the Masters

Rory McIlroy: Had a tough time of it in the first round of the Masters. Picture: Matt Slocum

Nobody has ever won the Masters on Thursday, but plenty of people have lost it. Rory McIlroy once again put himself closer to the wrong side of that familiar adage.

Despite much tougher conditions than players faced five months ago In November, plenty of contenders with all manner of pedigree managed to navigate the firm and fast test with minimal damage. Hideki Matsuyama of Japan and American Brian Harman shared the early clubhouse lead at 3-under 69.