Butch Harmon believes that Rory McIlroy holds a slight edge over defending champion Scottie Scheffler in the race for The Masters, despite the latter’s recent dominance at Augusta National.
Scheffler, who has already claimed two Green Jackets in recent years, is aiming to become the first player since Tiger Woods to win back-to-back Masters titles. He enters the tournament after a remarkable 2024 season, where he won nine global events. However, he has yet to secure a victory on the PGA Tour this season.
In contrast, McIlroy is coming off a strong start to the year, having secured two wins, including a victory at The Players Championship last month. While Scheffler may be the favorite according to bookmakers, Harmon thinks McIlroy has the upper hand to secure the elusive victory that would complete his career Grand Slam.
“With the way both Scheffler and McIlroy have been playing, it’s clear they are the top contenders,” Harmon said. “If I had to pick a favorite, I’d say Rory. He’s not a guaranteed winner, but on paper, he’s in a good position.”
Harmon also pointed to McIlroy’s recent form, noting that despite his minor issues with iron play, he seems to have his putting in good shape. “Everything seems to be aligning for Rory to win The Masters,” he said. “Now, it’s just a matter of him going out there and getting the job done.”
McIlroy, after his victory at The Players, expressed that he feels like a “more complete player” than ever before, and Harmon hopes he will bring a more relaxed mindset into his quest for a first major win since 2014.
“His game is ready,” Harmon continued. “If he can just relax and let things happen naturally, this could be the year he breaks through. The pressure he’s put on himself has been evident, but if he calms down and plays his game, it could all come together.”
Harmon also mentioned the importance of McIlroy learning to enjoy the moment, much like the greats who have won at Augusta. “The greats like Tiger and Jack Nicklaus were able to relax, knowing that whatever happens, happens. If Rory can do that, it will be hard to beat him.”
Historically, McIlroy has struggled with his opening rounds at The Masters. Out of 16 appearances, he has only recorded two first-round scores in the 60s. Last year, he posted a one-under 71 in the first round, his first sub-par start since 2018. Despite these struggles, McIlroy has seven top-10 finishes at Augusta, including a runner-up finish in 2022.
“We’ll get a good look at Rory on Thursday and see how he’s handling the pressure,” said Harmon. “The first major always gets everyone excited, like a horse in the starting gate. Rory needs to trust in himself, stay patient, and position himself well early on. You can’t win it on Thursday or Friday, but you can certainly put yourself in the hunt.”
Harmon also noted that McIlroy seemed too eager in past Masters events, and he hopes to see a more composed version of the Northern Irishman this year. “If he can find that calm, it will make for an exciting week.
