Rory McIlroy's quest for a coveted Masters title hit a significant setback during the third round of the 2026 tournament at Augusta National. The Northern Irish star carded a disastrous double bogey on the par-3 11th hole, a mistake he later described as "such a bad mistake."
The error proved costly as McIlroy's tee shot found the water hazard guarding the green, forcing a penalty drop. He ultimately required three more strokes to complete the hole, sending his scorecard spiraling and jeopardizing his position on the leaderboard.
"Such a bad mistake," McIlroy was heard lamenting after the hole, capturing the frustration of a missed opportunity on one of Augusta's most demanding tests.
This stumble comes at a critical juncture in the championship, where every stroke is magnified under the pressure of Sunday contention. The double bogey immediately shifted momentum and added pressure to McIlroy's remaining holes as he attempts to chase down the leaders and secure what would be his first green jacket.