What would you do if you had one of the worst Masters first-round scores ever?Nick Dunlap shot 18 over par on Thursday, meaning he had little chance of making the cut. He considered leaving the event for a moment. He struck the trees behind his Airbnb with dozens of balls.
The 21-year-old American then managed to pull off an almost historic comeback on Friday, finishing the second round one-under par after raising his total by 19 strokes.
According to ESPN, this improvement was the largest round-to-round turnaround at the Masters since 1936 and the joint-biggest in any major in the previous 50 years, despite the fact that he missed the cut and ended 17-over for the two days.
Dunlap, who is regarded as one of the sport’s most promising prospects due to his junior accomplishments that were on par with those of Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, was nevertheless left feeling let down and angry following his tournament.
He later told reporters, “(There’s) about the same (emotions as last round).”
It is annoying. Anger is prevalent. When you give something your all and feel like you are not improving, it can be difficult. However, I did my best, posted something below standard, and showed up today.
Even though Dunlap shot a round below par, his difficulties have not vanished overnight. He was still clearly having trouble with his driver, primarily using a 3-wood off the tee on Friday, sacrificing accuracy for distance.
Nevertheless, until he bogeyed the 16th, 17th, and 18th holes late in the game, he was able to shoot four birdies and stay clear of bogeys.
“I started a round of golf today with more of a knot in my stomach than I have ever had,” he remarked. “I can definitely learn something from that, but I do not want to be in that situation ever again.”
Dunlap claimed that since the Hero World Challenge in December, issues have gradually entered his game and “continually gotten worse.”
Despite winning two PGA Tour championships last season—one of which was the only amateur victory since 1991—he has missed the cut at his first six majors since going pro.
He described his career’s dizzying highs and lows thus far as “extremely rewarding and extremely humbling and frustrating at the same time.”
Professional golf, in my opinion, can be a pretty isolating environment, particularly if you are not playing well. But I have had a great time. Like thus, you get to visit many amazing and historic locations.
His next performance is scheduled on April 17 at RBC Heritage.
