AUGUSTA, Georgia, April 11 - Cameron Young dramatically surged into contention at the Masters on Saturday, firing a seven-under-par 65 to tie for the lead with Rory McIlroy at 11-under. The golfer, who began the third round eight shots off the pace, will now play in Sunday's final pairing.

Young's career has seen a steady climb, marked by seven runner-up finishes before his breakthrough PGA Tour victory last August. He credits a gradual build-up of confidence over the past year for his current form.

"It's been a slow climb," Young stated. "The hardest thing to do, I think, is develop some confidence when things aren't going great. Through the middle of last year I was able to take some positives out of some average results and out of some close calls."

Momentum has been building for Young, including a first Ryder Cup appearance and a pivotal victory at the Players Championship in March. He highlighted that win as preparation for playing late on a Sunday at Augusta.

Despite facing a partisan crowd likely favoring McIlroy, Young remains focused on his process. "I don't get the sense I'll be the fan favourite, but yeah, I feel like the support, some fans that cheer for me have gotten louder over the last year," he said.