On a golf course, silence can convey a lot, particularly when the stakes are as high as they are at the Masters. Additionally, that silence usually signals business when Rory McIlroy is in the final pairing.
That’s exactly what Cameron Young experienced during the final round at Augusta National Golf Club in 2026. Paired with McIlroy on Sunday, Young found himself in a similar environment to what Bryson DeChambeau experienced during his final round with the Irish golfer last year. After falling short of the Green Jacket, Young admitted there wasn’t much interaction between the two.
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“There’s not much,” Young said. “I’m not one to talk a ton to begin with … and I don’t think he really wanted to talk to me today. Sunday at the Masters in the final group — you know … we’re playing against each other. I’m not trying to be best friends out there.”
The moment isn’t entirely new for McIlroy. During the 2025 Masters, McIlroy was laser focused on winning the green jacket also led to minimal conversation between him and his final-round partner, DeChambeau. Both golfers exchanged a few words, though that was due to a dispute. Now, a year later, despite no disagreement, Young experienced a similar situation.
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McIlroy won the Masters with a final round of 1-under par. Young’s 1-over par round led to a tie for third place. While there was some concern about McIlroy losing his lead to Scottie Scheffler, his silence throughout the round appeared to help him stay focused and secure back-to-back green jackets.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 13, 2026, where it first appeared in the Golf section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.