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Sam Burns Blocks Out Rory McIlroy Hype, Leans on ‘I Can Only Control Myself’ Mindset

Originally posted on DailyClubGolf | By Aditi Singh | Last updated Apr 12, 2026 9:37 AM ET

Sam Burns is trying to ignore golf’s biggest name. As the Masters enters its final round, Burns sits just one shot behind superstar Rory McIlroy. However, he’s not letting the pressure get to him.

“Ultimately, I’m playing the golf course. You know, I can’t control anything anyone else does. I can only control myself, and so that’s kind of what the mentality we took today,” Sam Burns said on Saturday.

“Just focus on our process and go out there and compete,” added Burns, who is seeking his first major, during a press conference.

Defending champion Rory McIlroy had earlier set the pace with rounds of 67 and 65, taking a six-shot lead into the weekend. That margin, however, narrowed after a 73 in the third round, where a double bogey at the 11th played a part in bringing the field closer.

Meanwhile, Sam Burns stayed within range through consistent play, including an opening 67 and a 68 on Saturday that moved him into solo third.

Since turning professional in 2017, Burns has recorded five PGA Tour wins, including consecutive titles at the Valspar Championship.

The 29-year-old, who played college golf at LSU, is making his fifth start at the Masters Tournament. Right now, he is the closest he’s ever come to winning a major.

Inside Sam Burns’ bag at the 2026 Masters: Driver to putter breakdown

Starting at the top, Sam Burns has switched to the Callaway Quantum Triple Diamond driver for 2026 while continuing with the Fujikura Ventus Blue 7 TX shaft.

He has made a similar move in his fairway wood setup, using a Callaway Triple Diamond model adjusted to 16° with a Mitsubishi Tensei 1K Black 75 TX shaft, according to GolfMonthly.

For longer approach options, Burns brings in the Callaway Apex UW at 21°, with the flexibility to alternate it with a Callaway X-Forged UT utility iron in the same loft. His iron setup now features Callaway Apex MB prototypes from 4-iron through pitching wedge, paired with Project X 6.5 shafts.

Around the greens, Burns has introduced Titleist Vokey SM11 wedges in 50°, 56°, and 60°, all fitted with Dynamic Gold S400 shafts. He completes the setup with an Odyssey Ai-One #7 SB putter, while continuing to use the Callaway Chrome Tour X golf ball.

Do you think Sam Burns can chase down the leaders and win his first major?

This article first appeared on DailyClubGolf and was syndicated with permission.

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