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Rory McIlroy appeared to offer some sage advice to Mason Howell after the amateur got off to a rocky start on his Masters debut. Thursday marked the start of the first round of The Masters. Making his return to Augusta for the first time since his emotional victory 12 months ago, McIlroy teed off on Thursday morning as he bids to retain his title.

McIlroy has been grouped with Cameron Young and amateur Howell for the opening two rounds of The Masters. It represents a tremendous opportunity for Howell, who has previously described the Northern Irishman as his sporting idol, and he carried a special ball with a profound personal significance. For Howell, competing alongside the defending champion is an extraordinary privilege.

He earned his place at The Masters by claiming the US Amateur Championship, following in the illustrious footsteps of legends such as Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Phil Mickelson, and Arnold Palmer.

His victory also secured Howell exemptions into the US Open, the Open Championship, and The Masters. Traditionally, his trip to Augusta sees him paired with fellow champion McIlroy. But he got off on the wrong foot as his nerves were plain to see from the very first tee.

After McIlroy struck a commanding opening tee shot, Howell stepped up to the mark. The amateur dragged his opening drive to the left. McIlroy, however, made every effort to ensure the young American's spirits remained high. The five-time major champion was spotted in conversation with Howell following his tricky opening, seemingly doing his best to settle his nerves.

The two share something of a history. McIlroy presented Howell with a golf ball at the 2016 Tour Championship, a gesture that has since served as a lasting source of motivation for the youngster. While remaining focused on his own performance to make the cut at Augusta National, Howell admitted he was relishing the prospect of teeing it up alongside McIlroy.

"I'll be super excited, but at the same time I'll be super nervous," Howell told reporters on Monday. "I think just controlling my emotions and sticking to my game plan, and just having fun.

"Rory was one of my idols growing up, so it'll be a super special moment for me. I can't oggle at his game too much. I got to focus on myself. It'll be fun."

Howell clearly took McIlroy's words on board, bouncing back from his wayward tee shot to par the opening hole - which proved far less forgiving for Aldrich Potgieter. The youngster added a par on the par-five second hole to remain at level par. After 11 holes, though, he was four over par.