DANIEL MATTHEWS REPORTING FROM AUGUSTA: As the sun beats down mercilessly, players and fans alike are feeling the heat, with temperatures soaring to nearly 85°F (30°C). It promises to be an endurance test today.

This morning, by 8:45 AM, the scene around the 18th green was already bustling, with 35 rows of camping chairs stacked along the banks. Such an early crowd is a rare sight, according to seasoned observers. However, the excitement is understandable when you take a glance at the leaderboard.

In contrast to yesterday, several early players have been tearing up the Augusta course. Among them are Gary Woodland, Viktor Hovland, Keegan Bradley, and Jon Rahm. Could this be setting the stage for an electrifying finish?

Much will hinge on how the greens respond to the rising heat. I was positioned at the 15th hole when the first group arrived, witnessing Charl Schwartzel attempt the par five in just two shots. His ball landed with a hefty thud on the green before bouncing clear off the back.