Masters Madness: DeChambeau Leads, Tiger Trails in Dramatic Start

The 2024 Masters is already living up to its billing as one of golf’s most dramatic events. On the opening day at Augusta National, thunderstorms caused lengthy delays but couldn’t dampen the excitement as the world’s best players jockeyed for position.

Rising to the top of the leaderboard is the one and only Bryson DeChambeau. The 2021 U.S. Open champion has been making his presence felt with his prodigious driving distances off the tee. DeChambeau fired a scintillating 7-under 65 to take the early lead.

“I was really stroking it well today,” DeChambeau said. “The course was there for the taking if you could hit it straight. I’ve been working really hard on dialing in my distances and it showed.”

Not far behind is the man to beat, world #1 Scottie Scheffler. The defending Masters champion was bogey-free in shooting a 6-under 66. Scheffler acknowledged he benefited from the suspended play.

“It was nice to get a little break and regroup,” he said. “The delays kind of reset me and I was able to stay patient out there.”

While the young stars shined, all eyes were on the legendary Tiger Woods. The 48-year-old struggled to an even-par 72, having to return early Friday to complete his final five holes. Woods was visibly hobbled but refused to make excuses.

“I’ve got a lot of work to do to get back in this thing,” Woods said. “But I’m used to being the underdog here. You can never count me out at Augusta.”

Rory McIlroy’s pursuit of a career Grand Slam got off to a steady start with an opening 71. Other marquee names like Jon Rahm (+2), Justin Thomas (+1), and Jordan Spieth (+3) will look to go low on day two to stay within striking distance.

But it’s DeChambeau who seized control early. His combination of jaw-dropping length and steady iron play could finally bag him that elusive first major if he can keep up his torrid pace.

No matter who prevails, the 2024 Masters is shaping up to be as entertaining and unpredictable as ever. Strap in for what is sure to be a wild ride over the next three days at one of golf’s most hallowed grounds.