Justin Rose refused to write off his major chances after another Masters near-miss. The 2013 US Open winner lost a playoff to Rory McIlroy at Augusta a year ago and held the lead on the back nine on Sunday before finishing in a tie for third, two shots behind the Northern Irishman who successfully defended his title.
It was Rose’s third top-six finish in his past eight major appearances and the 45-year-old, a winner on the PGA Tour in February, believes he can compete at the highest level. “In the last two years I’ve really re-kicked on and re-energised my career and myself and have a lot of belief there is a lot of runway ahead,” he said after shooting a final-round 70 having come undone at Amen Corner.
“There was a tough period, sort of 2021, 2022, 2023, but from the middle of 23 onwards I played some good golf.
“These are the tournaments I focus on. These are the tournaments why I practice. These are the tournaments that get me going that extra mile to have to show up and keep being in these great arenas.”
Rose has recorded eight top-10 finishes around Augusta National, including finishing second three times, and he hopes to be able to maintain that form having been inspired by some of the veterans. “You look at Freddie [Couples], the way he plays around here. Bernhard Langer, the guys get around,” he said. “It does show this course, maybe more than anywhere, suits maybe personal style or knowledge.”
Tyrrell Hatton finished alongside his compatriot and Ryder Cup teammate to register his best major finish after charging through the field with a 66 that included six birdies and an eagle. Having finished joint fourth at last year’s US Open he feels his game is getting better in the big events.
“I try not to treat them any differently,” he said. “Still go out there every day and every round, every shot and try the best I can.
“Maybe I would need to find a way of preparing a little bit better, whether that be more putting or something throughout the early part of the week just to get a bit more ready.
“This is my 10th Masters so been fortunate to be here a lot and my results the last three years have definitely improved [he has finished tied-ninth and tied-14th] which is nice. I’ve got a little bit more comfortable on the course on certain shots.”
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