Jason Day Makes Strong Start At 2026 Masters, Eyes First Major Win
Jason Day Makes Strong Start At 2026 Masters, Eyes First Major Win...
Australian golfer Jason Day surged into contention at the 2026 Masters Tournament on Thursday, carding an opening-round 67 to sit just two shots off the lead. The 38-year-old, who has 12 PGA Tour wins but no major victories since 2015, is trending as American fans rally behind his comeback story at Augusta National.
Day's strong start comes after years of injury struggles and ranking declines. He entered this week ranked 78th in the world, his lowest position since 2010. His five-under-par round featured six birdies, including three straight on holes 12-14, electrifying the Georgia crowds.
The performance has reignited discussion about Day's major championship potential. He held the world No. 1 ranking for 51 weeks in 2015-2016 but hasn't won on tour since 2018. Golf analysts note his improved driving accuracy (hitting 11 of 14 fairways Thursday) could be key to contending this weekend.
Social media engagement spiked after Day's emotional post-round interview where he credited his family and coach Chris Como for the resurgence. ESPN reported a 214% increase in Jason Day-related searches during Thursday's broadcast, with particular interest from Ohio audiences near his longtime U.S. home base.
Day will tee off Friday afternoon alongside defending champion Scottie Scheffler and rising star Ludvig Ã…berg. Tournament officials expect larger-than-normal Friday crowds following Day's opening round heroics. The last Australian to win the Masters was Adam Scott in 2013.
Weather forecasts suggest challenging conditions could play to Day's advantage over the weekend. His renowned short game (ranking 3rd in scrambling this season) may prove crucial if winds increase as predicted. A victory would make Day the first player since Tiger Woods to win majors nine years apart.
Bookmakers adjusted Day's odds from 80-1 to 18-1 after Thursday's round. His performance comes during a resurgent season that already includes three top-10 finishes. The Masters continues through Sunday at Augusta National Golf Club.
