Rory McIlroy will be looking to avoid turning the final round of the Masters into a “rematch” with Bryson DeChambeau as he seeks to complete his Grand Slam run.
McIlroy posted a second straight 66 at Augusta National to maintain a two-shot lead over DeChambeau, who edged the Northern Irishman in dramatic fashion to win his second U.S. Open title at Pinehurst last year.
“It was a great day and it puts me in a great position for tomorrow,” McIlroy said after a third round that started with six straight three-putts and included eagles on the second and 15th holes.
“I think the main thing is not to make revenge out of this, to stay in your own world.
“There are still a few players who can make a run, I just need to stay in my little bubble and approach each day with the same mindset I've had in the last few days.”
McIlroy started the third round two strokes behind Ryder Cup teammate Justin Rose, but made birdie at the first, eagle at the second, and birdies at the third and fifth holes.
“Obviously it was a perfect start,” McIlroy added. “Two great shots on the first, three great shots on the second, three great shots on the third.”
“From the end of yesterday until the start today there was a lot of anticipation and nervous energy, and to start the way I did was amazing.
“I had a little bit of a hesitation on the turn and I thought the par putt on 11 was huge to get the momentum back. After that, all I tried to do was take advantage of the par five coming in and I did that.”
McIlroy admitted he has no idea how he spent Saturday night in 2011, when he led by four before losing it over the last 80 points, but will probably watch Bridgerton and try to stay off his phone tonight.
“I still have to remind myself that there is a long road ahead,” he added. “I, like many others, am aware of what could happen on the last day here.
“I came here with the intention of becoming the best version of myself as a golfer. I just have to constantly remember that whatever situation I find myself in tomorrow, I can handle it.”
DeChambeau said he plans to watch a James Bond movie with Pierce Brosnan on Saturday night because he
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