Rory McIlroy stands on the precipice of golfing history as he carries a two-shot advantage into Sunday's final round of the 2025 Masters at Augusta National. The Northern Irishman is just 18 holes away from completing the coveted career grand slam, a feat achieved by only a select few in the sport's storied history.
McIlroy will face stiff competition in what promises to be a dramatic conclusion to golf's first major of the year. Current U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau sits in second place and will join McIlroy in the final pairing – setting up what many consider a dream showdown between two of golf's most dynamic talents.
Canadian Corey Conners remains in contention, while 2018 Masters champion Patrick Reed has displayed consistent improvement throughout the tournament. Reed has been particularly impressive around Augusta's challenging greens, gaining strokes in consecutive rounds with his putting. Having missed only six fairways and avoided any double-bogeys thus far, Reed's experience at Augusta makes him a serious threat to make a Sunday charge.
According to Statbet analysts, McIlroy's performance on Augusta's par-5s could be the determining factor in whether he finally captures the green jacket that has eluded him throughout his career.
The bookmakers have installed McIlroy as the clear favorite at -200, with DeChambeau at +250 and Conners at +1800. World-class talents Scottie Scheffler and Ludvig Aberg share odds at +3500, while Reed sits at +8000 despite his solid play.
Justin Thomas, though not in contention for the title, could provide early fireworks on Sunday. The two-time major champion has shown resilience earlier this season at THE PLAYERS Championship, where he rebounded from a disappointing opening round with a spectacular 62 featuring 11 birdies.
With perfect weather conditions expected and Augusta National's greens continuing to firm up, the stage is set for a memorable conclusion to the 2025 Masters as McIlroy attempts to join golf's most exclusive club and claim the final piece of his career grand slam puzzle.
