Collin Morikawa faced significant mental challenges during the first round of the 2026 Masters tournament, which took place in Augusta, Georgia. Recently recovering from debilitating back spasms that forced him to withdraw from THE PLAYERS Championship, Morikawa found himself grappling with self-doubt as he stepped onto the course.
Addressing Mental Demons
Morikawa admitted that the mental impact of his injury lingered, even though he no longer felt physical discomfort. He described the state of his mind as one filled with anxiety, stating that he experienced unprecedented nerves before his round. Morikawa shared, “Honestly, it’s probably the toughest round I’ve ever played.”
First Round Performance
Starting his round on Thursday, Morikawa initially seemed steady, recording six consecutive pars. However, a bogey on the seventh hole marked the beginning of a challenging day. He finished the opening round with a score of 2-over 74.
Physical Challenges
- Morikawa struggled with mobility, describing difficulty in walking.
- He had not regained his typical swing power, relying primarily on upper body strength.
- Leading up to the tournament, he limited his practice to under 50 range balls a day.
Despite the physical setbacks, Morikawa’s determination was clear. He managed to play even par on the tough holes 10 and 11. However, an attempt to gain momentum with a birdie at the 13th was followed by another bogey, which hindered his progress.
Looking Ahead
As Morikawa prepares for the next three rounds, he expressed hope of overcoming these mental barriers. He reflected on the powerful influence of the mind in sports, noting, “The mind is a powerful, powerful thing.” To advance in the tournament, he acknowledged the need for a solid performance on Friday.
In summary, Morikawa is taking each day as it comes, aiming to find his way back to form while managing the lingering effects of his recent injury both physically and mentally.
