Rory McIlroy closed the second round with six birdies in his final seven holes — including the last four — to open up the largest 36-hole lead in the Masters.

McIlroy is seeking to become the fourth player to win back-to-back at the Masters, joining Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods.

Reigning champion Rory McIlroy puts on a stunning short-game performance during the second round of the Masters to take a six-stroke lead into the weekend.

In his quest to become the first back-to-back Masters champion since Tiger Woods in 2001, Rory McIlroy birdied six of his last seven holes in the second round on Friday to finish the day at 12-under and take a six-shot lead on the field.

Despite a driver that won't cooperate, McIlroy is lapping the field in a never-before-seen fashion after 36 holes at the 2026 Masters

There's a large gap on the board before Patrick Reed, currently tied for second place at 6-under, checks in at 15-1. Tommy Fleetwood (18-1) and Justin Rose (+2050), tied at 5-under, check in next before Sam Burns,

Rory McIlroy leads the Masters by six shots, but Patrick Reed, golf's 'villain,' is in second and wants to spoil his run.

Rory McIlroy caught fire with six birdies in his last seven holes on Friday at the Masters, and he's now 12-under with a six-shot lead on the field heading into the weekend.