Tom Watson turned back the clock at Augusta National on Thursday, shooting a 1-under 71 in the first round of the Masters.
Tom Watson turned back the clock at Augusta National on Thursday, shooting a 1-under 71 in the first round of the Masters.Matt Slocum/Associated Press

Leading: Jordan Spieth, with an 8-under-par 64.

Just back: Four players, including Justin Rose, Ernie Els, Jason Day and Charley Hoffman, are three shots back at 67.

Spieth’s streak: Spieth birdied six of seven holes during one stretch, beginning at the eighth hole.

Where’s Tiger?: Woods was nine shots back after a 1-over 73.

And Bubba?: Defending champion and two-time winner Bubba Watson shot an opening 71.

Stat of the day: World No. 1 Rory McIlroy and Tom Watson, who is ranked 956th, both shot 71.

Noteworthy: Tom Watson, 65, became the oldest player to break par at the Masters. The previous record was set by 61-year-old Sam Snead in 1974.

Who to watch: Spieth tees off at 7:57 a.m. Friday in search of his first major title. Woods has a 8:30 a.m. tee time.

TV: Friday, 1-5:30 p.m., ESPN.

Associated Press