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Rory McIlroy sprang a surprise during the opening round of the 2023 Masters, agreeing to do a “walk and talk” for television in the middle of his round.

Coming off a birdie at the eighth to get him back to one-over for his round, the world No.2 popped in an earpiece to speak with CBS commentary duo Jim Nantz and Trevor Immelman.

McIlroy provided the pair with some thoughts on how his round had gone so far and talked them through his shot selection for his approach into the ninth.

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It was, without question, brilliant television but many viewers were left surprised at the Irishman’s decision to do the interview in what is, arguably, the most important week of his year.

Remember: he is just a Masters victory away from becoming only the sixth golfer to complete the career grand slam.

British TV presenter Vernon Kay was amongst those to chime in…

Live walking commentary with Rory @TheMasters is bonkers! 👍👍👍👍

— Vernon Kay (@vernonkay) April 6, 2023

Plenty of others shared their takes, too. Some loved it, some not so much…

Enjoyed the walk-n-talk with Rory on the 9th hole. Couldn't believe they were doing it at first. Cringed a bit as they kept asking him questions, but he was superb. Innovative sports broadcasting worth doing for the insight. #Masters

— Delme Parfitt (@delmeparfitt) April 6, 2023

https://twitter.com/T0nyh07/status/1644075659193462786

Why on earth is Rory talking to these clowns in the commentary box?? Maybe he should concentrate on his golf 🤷‍♂️

— Dean Simpson (@DeanSimpson56) April 6, 2023

Incredible to have Rory McIlroy effectively commentating on his own round at #themasters. Adds a fascinating new dimension to the coverage.

— Dan O'Hagan (@danohagan) April 6, 2023

Fascinating to hear and see Rory McIlroy do an on-course, mid-round live interview at #themasters

Cool, calm and collected, despite the fact he is competing as a favourite at the biggest golf tournament of the year.

— Harry McCann (@TheHarryMcC) April 6, 2023

Rory McIlroy making Masters history speaking to CBS (and the world) on the green. Incredible insight and tv 😮

— Kelly Somers (@KellySomers) April 6, 2023

As cool as it is to have Rory McIlroy mic’d up I hope this doesn’t lead to an overkill of doing it. Awesome moment, and I wish it was done more in other tournaments, but not sure if now because Rory did it we need more guys mic’d up at the Masters and other Majors.

— Mike Uva (@Mike_Uva) April 6, 2023

Rory McIlroy doing a walk and talk mid-round at #themasters Game changer.

— Joe Ramage (@JoeRamage_92) April 6, 2023

Amazing for Rory McIlroy to speak to CBS (and the world) as he played the 9th.
Imagining what dear old Peter Alliss would have made of it.#themasters

— Andy Stevenson (@AndyStevenson81) April 6, 2023