Jason Day Makes Stunning Masters Comeback After 7-Year Drought
Jason Day Makes Stunning Masters Comeback After 7-Year Drought...
Australian golfer Jason Day surged back into contention at the 2026 Masters Tournament on Saturday, carding a 6-under 66 to sit just two strokes off the lead heading into Sunday's final round. The performance marks Day's strongest showing at Augusta National since his last top-5 finish in 2019, reigniting hopes for his first green jacket.
The 38-year-old former world No. 1 electrified the galleries with five birdies in his first 10 holes, including a 35-foot putt on the treacherous 12th. Day's resurgence comes after years battling back injuries and swing changes that nearly derailed his career. "I've put in the work," Day told ESPN after his round. "This place owes me nothing, but I'd love to give it one more shot."
Day's performance is trending across U.S. sports platforms as golf fans rally behind the popular veteran. His last PGA Tour win came at the 2023 AT&T Byron Nelson, with many writing off his chances at major championships. Social media erupted with #DayAtTheMasters memes and throwback clips of his 2011 Masters runner-up finish.
Sunday's final pairing will feature Day alongside current leader Will Zalatoris and defending champion Scottie Scheffler. Tournament officials expect record TV ratings for the showdown, with NBC's coverage beginning at 2 PM ET. Day remains +750 in Las Vegas sportsbooks, the third favorite behind Scheffler (+200) and Zalatoris (+350).
Augusta National's notoriously difficult weekend pins proved no match for Day's precision iron play. He gained 4.2 strokes on approach shots Saturday, best in the field. "When Jason's dialed in like this, he's still one of the most dangerous players alive," said analyst Paul Azinger during the broadcast.
The comeback story resonates beyond golf circles. Day has been open about his mental health struggles following his mother's cancer diagnosis and his own injuries. His wife Ellie was seen wiping away tears as he walked up the 18th fairway to a standing ovation.
Should Day prevail Sunday, he would become the first Australian to win the Masters since Adam Scott in 2013. Tournament officials confirmed they have a backup green jacket in Day's size ready, just in case.
