Matt Kuchar ran in lofty circles as an amateur while at Georgia Tech, compiling a résumé filled with promise -- and pressure -- for a pro career.
At 32, he's risen to No. 10 in the world rankings, one of four Americans battling six Europeans for golf supremacy. Indeed, he conquered the PGA Tour last season as leading money winner with nearly $5 million and continued his run into this year with six top 10s in eight events.
Kuchar delivered again Thursday, matching his Masters career-low of 68 and weaving his way through a traffic jam of International players.
His 4-under-par round included six birdies and two bogeys. Kuchar especially gained ground on Augusta National's par 5s -- making birdies at Nos. 2, 8 and 15 -- and trailed first-round leader Rory McIlroy by three strokes.
"I felt solid out there," Kuchar said. "I didn't feel like I was doing a whole lot of grinding. It felt like a log of good opportunities."
Kuchar made his Masters debut in 1998, an invitation earned as the reigning U.S. Amateur champion. He made the cut and finished as low amateur, becoming a patron favorite with his infectious smile, Georgia Tech ties and father carrying his golf bag. Kuchar also made the cut and was low amateur at the U.S. Open that year.
In four previous Masters, he's missed one cut. His best finish, a tie for 21st, came in his first appearance. So did his 68.
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