McIlroy Leads Masters by Six Shots at Halfway

AUGUSTA, Georgia Rory McIlroy seized a commanding six-shot lead at the Masters Tournament on Friday, firing a seven-under-par 65 to reach 12 under after 36 holes and establish the largest halfway margin in the event's history.

The Northern Irishman, who captured his first green jacket in a playoff last year to complete the career Grand Slam, pulled away from the field with a stunning surge down the stretch. He birdied six of his final seven holes, including a chip-in from off the 17th green and a six-foot putt at the last for his fourth straight birdie to close the round. Earlier, McIlroy traded birdies with Patrick Reed through Amen Corner before breaking free on the par-5 13th and 15th, where he capitalized after laying up from the trees.

"I've always loved this tournament, I've always loved this golf course even when I felt it didn't always love me back," McIlroy said after his round. "I feel like I'm playing with the house's money, which is a nice feeling to have."

McIlroy's performance marked a departure from his historically tentative play at Augusta National, where he has endured heartbreak, including a infamous collapse from a four-shot lead entering the final round in...