Lowry in late Masters start as McIlroy continues defence
The Masters moved into its second round on Friday, with lowry among the later starters at Augusta National and Rory McIlroy returning after an opening-round 67. The lowry tee time comes as McIlroy pursues a rare second straight Masters victory, a feat that would make him only the fourth player to do so.
Coverage of the second round is being carried live, with the focus on how McIlroy handles the pressure of defending his title and whether the leaderboard begins to tighten as the day goes on. For lowry, the late start means the opening moves of the round will be watched closely as the Masters picture develops.
McIlroy returns with momentum
McIlroy’s first-round 67 put him in a strong position heading into Friday, and the next stage of the tournament now shifts to whether he can keep that rhythm on one of golf’s most demanding stages. The Masters remains the central storyline, but lowry’s place among the later starters adds another name to the day’s live tracking.
With the field spread across the afternoon, every score can alter the shape of the tournament quickly. The opening round has already given McIlroy a platform, and the second round now asks whether he can protect that advantage while the chase begins to build behind him.
Lowry’s timing adds interest to the second round
The lowry start time places him in a section of the draw that could matter as conditions and momentum change through the afternoon. In a major where patience and control often matter as much as early fireworks, that timing is part of the day’s attention.
Friday’s round is also significant because it deepens the title-defense storyline around McIlroy. The Masters has only seen three players win back-to-back editions, so every clean stretch matters as the chase continues.
What the round is being watched for
Two things will shape the conversation as play continues: whether McIlroy can extend his lead and whether the later starters, including lowry, can make their move without giving ground early. The Masters remains fluid, and the margin for error is small.
There is also added interest in how the defending champion’s response sets the tone for the rest of the field. If McIlroy keeps control, the pressure shifts onto those trying to close the gap. If not, the door opens quickly for the pack around him, with lowry part of the wider Friday picture.
As the second round unfolds, lowry stays in view as part of a Masters day built around McIlroy’s defense, the leaderboard chase, and the question of who can survive the pressure at Augusta National.
