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Shane Lowry has emerged as the frontrunner in the 152nd British Open at Royal Troon, holding a two-shot lead after the second round. The Irishman, who triumphed at the Open in 2019, overcame a double bogey on the 11th hole to post a two-under-par round of 69, bringing his total to seven under.Lowry's ascent to the top of the leaderboard was preceded by Englishman Daniel Brown's impressive six-under 65 on Thursday. However, Brown maintained his composure under pressure, carding a steady 72 to remain at five under.World number one Scottie Scheffler is lurking in fourth place at two under, despite a bogey on the 18th hole. Scheffler, who has already secured six victories this year, including the Masters, is within striking distance of Lowry.In contrast, Tiger Woods' hopes of adding to his 15 major titles were dashed after two disappointing rounds. The 48-year-old struggled in the blustery conditions, finishing with a two-round score of 156, his worst ever at a British Open.Rory McIlroy, another pre-tournament favorite, faces an uphill battle to make the weekend after an opening round of 78. The projected cut is currently set at four over.Scottish Open champion Bob MacIntyre's dreams of a home soil triumph were shattered as he dropped eight shots in his first four holes, leaving him at nine over.As the tournament progresses, attention will shift to McIlroy's attempt to recover from his disastrous start and Lowry's bid to maintain his lead and secure his second major championship.

Rory McIlroy, the world's number two golfer, is determined to overcome the disappointment of his near-miss at the US Open and claim victory at the British Open, which begins on Thursday at Troon. McIlroy's heartbreaking loss at Pinehurst, where he missed two short putts on the final two holes, has fueled his motivation to add to his sole British Open triumph in 2014.Despite his recent struggles on links courses, world number one Scottie Scheffler remains the favorite to win. Scheffler has enjoyed a remarkable season, winning six times in 14 starts, including the Masters in April. However, he will need to adapt his game to the windy conditions at Troon, which have historically favored older players.Bryson DeChambeau, who won the US Open, will also be a contender. DeChambeau has recognized the need to adjust his game for links golf and has been practicing on similar courses in preparation.Tiger Woods, a three-time British Open winner, will make his return to the tournament after missing last year's event. Despite his limited playing time since a serious car accident in 2021, Woods believes the links course conditions give him a better chance to compete.The field will be battling for a prize pot worth $17.5 million, with the winner receiving $3.1 million. Fans can expect an exciting tournament, as the last Open played at Troon in 2016 saw Henrik Stenson outgun Phil Mickelson in a Sunday shootout.

Tiger Woods, the legendary golfer, has made history once again at the Masters Tournament. Despite enduring numerous injuries and a devastating car accident, Woods has extended his record-breaking streak of consecutive cuts to 24.On Friday, Woods faced a grueling day at Augusta National. He completed the final five holes of his opening round, which was delayed by storms, and then played another 18 holes. Despite the challenging conditions, Woods managed to shoot an even-par 72, ensuring his place in the weekend rounds.Woods' performance was particularly impressive considering his limited preparation. He has played just one less hole in the past three months than he did on Friday. However, Augusta National seems to bring out the best in him."I'm tired," Woods admitted. "But Lance (Bennett, his caddie) and I really did some good fighting today, and we've got a chance."Woods' determination and resilience were evident throughout the round. He made several clutch chips and putts to keep his score above the cut line. His accuracy off the tee was also impressive, hitting 25 of 28 fairways.Despite facing a daunting deficit, Woods remains confident in his chances of winning the tournament. "I'm right there," he said. "I don't think anyone is going to run off and hide right now."Woods' performance has inspired awe and admiration from fellow golfers. Stewart Hagestad, an amateur who missed the cut, said, "The guy has barely played at all in the last calendar year, and he's 1 over. That's alien stuff. That's unbelievable."Max Homa, who is tied for the lead, was impressed by Woods' composure on the 18th green when strong winds whipped up sand. "He's standing there like a statue and then poured it right in the middle," Homa said.Woods' record-breaking streak and his determination to win his sixth green jacket are a testament to his greatness. He remains a force to be reckoned with at Augusta National, and his presence in the weekend rounds is sure to add excitement to the tournament.

The Masters Tournament, held annually at Augusta National Golf Club, is renowned for its picturesque setting and challenging course. However, beneath the surface of its timeless beauty, Augusta National has undergone significant changes over the years, particularly in its length.When Tiger Woods claimed his maiden Masters title in 1997, the course measured 6,925 yards. Fast forward to 2023, and Augusta has stretched to an impressive 7,555 yards, a testament to the ever-evolving nature of the game.This gradual lengthening has been driven by several factors. Advances in golf technology, such as improved clubs and balls, have allowed players to hit the ball farther and more accurately. Additionally, the desire to maintain the course's challenge for the world's top golfers has necessitated adjustments to its layout.The most significant changes have occurred on the par-5 holes. The 13th hole, once a reachable par-5 for long hitters, has been extended to 510 yards, making it a more strategic challenge. Similarly, the 15th hole, known as "Firethorn," has been lengthened to 550 yards, requiring players to carefully consider their approach shots.While the lengthening of Augusta National has presented new challenges for golfers, it has also preserved the course's reputation as one of the most demanding tests in the sport. The ability to navigate the course's increased length and hazards requires a combination of power, precision, and strategic thinking.As the Masters Tournament approaches, the world's best golfers will face the daunting task of conquering the ever-evolving Augusta National. The course's increased length will undoubtedly play a significant role in determining the outcome, adding an extra layer of intrigue to one of the most prestigious events in golf.

Tiger Woods, the legendary golfer, faces a historic opportunity at the 88th Masters Tournament. Despite enduring severe leg injuries from a 2021 car crash, Woods aims to break the record for consecutive Masters appearances, currently held by Gary Player and Fred Couples.Woods began his first round on Thursday, completing 13 holes before darkness halted play. He stands at one-under par, sharing 17th place. To make the cut, Woods must complete the remaining five holes of round one and endure 18 more in round two.The Augusta National course presents a significant physical challenge, with its hilly terrain and long distances. Woods acknowledged the strain on his body, stating, "It's certainly one of the more hillier walks we have on tour."Despite the challenges, Woods remains determined. He sank a birdie putt at the first hole, recovered from a bogey at the fourth, and made another birdie at the eighth. He parred the next five holes before play was suspended.Woods's return to competition has been marked by uncertainty regarding his physical condition. He admitted, "Things just flare up. Some days I just feel really good, and other days, not so much."The brisk and swirling winds on Thursday added to the difficulty of the course. Woods described it as "one of the most tricky days I've ever been a part of."Woods's quest to make history will be a testament to his resilience and determination. If he can overcome the physical challenges and make the cut, he will have the chance to chase his 16th major championship.

Tiger Woods, the legendary golfer, is determined to don the Masters green jacket for a record-equaling sixth time despite the physical challenges he faces. The undulating terrain of Augusta National Golf Club poses significant obstacles, with severe slopes on fairways and greens. Woods' fused ankle and other injuries make it difficult to play shots from non-tee areas, causing discomfort and pain.Despite these challenges, Woods remains confident in his abilities. "If everything comes together, I think I can get one more," he said. His shot-making and creativity are still intact, but his body limits his practice sessions and shot count.Woods has adapted his training to focus on quality over quantity. He works daily to improve his flexibility, strength, and recovery. His practice sessions are now more targeted and efficient.Woods' intimate knowledge of Augusta National Golf Club is a significant advantage. He understands the intricacies of the course and knows where to hit his shots and avoid potential hazards. This knowledge has contributed to his 14 top-10 finishes in 25 starts at the Masters.Woods' love for golf and competition drives him to push through the physical pain. He enjoys the preparation and the thrill of competing. His passion for the sport has been a key factor in his successful career.Woods will tee off at 1:24pm (10:54pm IST) alongside Jason Day and Max Homa. Despite the challenges, he remains a contender for the coveted green jacket.