Rory McIlroy's attempt to repeat as Masters champion cannot compare to the original

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Earlier this week, before Rory McIlroy jumped out to what seemed like an insurmountable lead, and before McIlroy blew that insurmountable lead, Jack Nicklaus ambled onto Augusta National’s first tee.He was there to play his part, as one does when living as a monument. Now 86, Jack was first named a Masters Tournament honorary starter 16 years ago. It’s a role he plays well — a vestige to remind everyone of what was. Six of Jack’s record 18 major victories came at Augusta. Simple math makes every year some sort of anniversary.This year it was easy. 2026 minus 1986 comes to an even 40.Advertisement