Patrick Reed Says Rory McIlroy Could Decide Weekend as Augusta Conditions Turn Brutal

“But the thing about this golf course, when it starts playing firm and fast, yeah, you’ll have shorter clubs in some greens, but they get so crusty and bouncy that you have to be so precise on iron shots. Then, when you get above the hole, you have to putt so defensively,” added Reed.

The course has less moisture after days without rain and steady sun, and this has led to a change in how the surface responds, with shots running on landing and approach play becoming harder to control.

That view is shared across the field. Shane Lowry, currently tied for fourth, said, “I think this could be the toughest Masters we’ve played in a while. Look at the forecast. They can do whatever they want with the golf course this weekend.” 

Patrick Reed on Staying Patient Heading Into the Weekend

“Just have to wait and see what the weekend entails. At the same time, I love the position I put myself in. Hopefully I can go out and have a good day tomorrow and have a good shot going into Sunday,” said the 9-time PGA Tour winner.

At the close of the second round of the 2026 Masters Tournament, Patrick Reed is tied for second at 6-under, alongside Sam Burns. He remains six shots behind Rory McIlroy, who leads at 12-under.

Reed opened with back-to-back rounds of 69, placing himself within reach of the lead through two days. Earlier in the week, he made two eagles on the front nine during his opening round, and that placed his start among the few similar moments recorded in the tournament.

As Friday progressed, Reed moved to 6-under through 12 holes and shared the lead for a period before Rory McIlroy went ahead with a late run. He then finished with a bogey on the final hole, leaving him tied for second heading into the weekend.

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