#190 Masters 2025: Friday Update and Second Round Preview

This podcast update from the second day of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National. It highlights Justin Rose's lead after the opening round and mentions other top contenders like Scottie Scheffler, Ludvig Åberg, and Corey Conners. The update also discusses Rory McIlroy’s need to recover and the remarkable performance of veteran Fred Couples. In addition, the forecasted unstable weather—with rain and strong winds—is described as a potentially major factor for today’s play.

After the first round of the 2025 Masters, the leaderboard is as follows:

• Justin Rose leads the field after an outstanding opening round of 65 (-7). This marks the fifth time he's led after round one at the Masters—a new tournament record.

• Just behind him at -4 are World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, Ludvig Åberg, and Corey Conners. These players are well positioned to make a push over the weekend.

• Rory McIlroy, aiming to complete the career Grand Slam, struggled late in the round with double bogeys on holes 15 and 17, finishing at even par. He’ll be looking to bounce back today to keep his hopes alive.

• A standout storyline is Fred Couples, who, at 65 years old, shot a 71 (-1). That performance sets a record for the longest span between under-par rounds at the Masters—his first came 42 years ago, in 1983.

Weather is expected to be a significant factor today, with forecasts calling for morning showers and winds up to 25 mph (40 km/h). These conditions could make Augusta’s already challenging greens even more difficult to manage. Players teeing off early may face wet conditions and softer fairways, while those with later start times will likely have to contend with swirling winds—particularly through Amen Corner and beyond.

Overall, Friday’s conditions could lead to big movement on the leaderboard. With 12 LIV Golf players in the field and several young stars in strong form, today’s round could be pivotal in shaping the weekend drama.

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