The world No.2 cards two late double bogeys to leave his latest bid to complete his career Grand Slam hanging by a thread
McIlroy took a four-shot lead into the final round in 2011 before shooting 80 and finishing tied 15th. To make matters worse for McIlroy, he was outscored by his two playing partners. American Bhatia finished with a hat-trick of birdies for a 70.
And Ludwig Aberg, who finished runner-up on his debut here last year, shot a 68 to sit level with Scottie Scheffler and Corey Connors in tied second. The Swede has played his first five rounds in Augusta in 11-under par. Asked why he plays so well here, Aberg said: “I don’t know
He took a seven – and then another double bogey at the 17th when he chipped 28 feet past the pin and missed a six-foot bogey putt.
McIlroy did not speak after his round and headed straight to the practice range. This is his 11th attempt to complete his career Grand Slam after wining his third different Major at the 2014 Open.
Eighteen of the last 19 Masters winners were within four shots of the lead after the opening round. And McIlroy has still only broken 70 twice – in 2011 and 2018 – in 17 opening rounds at Augusta National and he has now trailed by at least six shots after 18 holes at the last six Masters.
Paul McGinley
Former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley claimed Rory McIlroy “got distracted” before his disastrous double bogey at the 15th
“It is a long way back for him,” added McGinley. “No-one will be beating himself up more than him. It has got to be gut-wrenching for him.”