Rory McIlroy takes largest 36-hole lead in Masters history after incredible finish to second round

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It took Rory McIlroy 17 attempts to win his first Green Jacket, finally breaking through last year. He is wasting no time in trying to win his second Masters title.

McIlroy, 36, shot a Friday-low 65 to move to 12-under and take a six-shot lead into Saturday. His six-shot lead is the largest second-round lead in Masters history.

McIlroy is just the fourth defending champion to hold the 36-hole lead the year after his victory. Arnold Palmer did it three times (1959, 1961, 1965), while Ian Woosnam (1992) and Jordan Spieth (2016) did it once.

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Rory McIlroy waves after his putt on the 13th hole during the second round of the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, on April 10, 2026. (Matt Slocum/AP Photo)

McIlroy is vying to become the fourth player to win the Masters in two straight years. Jack Nicklaus did it in 1965-66, Nick Faldo in 1989-90, and Tiger Woods in 2001-02.

The world No. 2 ended his second round by birdieing six of his last seven holes. Throughout the tournament, McIlroy has parred 18 holes, birdied 15 and recorded just three bogeys.

McIlroy said he is going to try to keep his foot on the gas.

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Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland celebrates after a putt on the 16th hole during the second round of the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, on April 10, 2026. (Ashley Landis/AP Photo)

"Look, I’ve built up a nice cushion at this point," McIlroy said. "I guess my mindset is just trying to keep playing well and keeping my foot on the gas."

Sam Burns and