Zach Johnson Grabs Early Masters Lead as Augusta Heats Up
AUGUSTA, GA—The 2025 Masters kicked off Thursday morning at Augusta National, and it's already delivering. With Tiger Woods sidelined after Achilles surgery, the stage is wide open for golf's elite. Defending champ Scottie Scheffler's chasing a third green jacket in four years, while Rory McIlroy's gunning for that elusive career Grand Slam. But right now? It's Zach Johnson stealing the show.
FOLLOW LIVE MASTERS COVERAGEHot Out the Gate
The 2007 Masters winner's off to a flyer, sitting at -2 through five holes to share the lead. He's knotted up with Chris Kirk (-2 through 5), amateur Noah Kent (-2 through 4), and Aaron Rai (-2 through 3). Johnson, 49, birdied Nos. 2 and 3, flashing that vintage Augusta magic.
— CBS Analyst Trevor Immelman
The Scene
No Tiger this year, but the vibes are electric. Sunny skies and mid-70s temps are set to stick around all week—perfect golf weather. Scheffler and McIlroy tee off later, but early birds like Johnson are setting the tone. The leaderboard's tight, and it's only Round 1.
Leaderboard Peek
| Player | Score | Thru |
|---|---|---|
| Zach Johnson | -2 | 5 |
| Chris Kirk | -2 | 5 |
| Noah Kent (a) | -2 | 4 |
| Aaron Rai | -2 | 3 |
| Group of 5 players | -1 | 2-4 |
• Zach Johnson: 2 birdies in first 3 holes
• Noah Kent: Amateur holding his own
• Chris Kirk: Bogey-free start
• Scheffler/McIlroy: Tee off at 1:30 PM ET
Why It Pops
Johnson's no stranger to Augusta glory, and this start's got fans buzzing. Can he keep it rolling against the big dogs? Day 1's just getting started, and the green jacket chase is ON.
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