Why Justin Rose holds his head high after latest close call at Masters

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Justin Rose seemingly pranced from toward the 10th tee, bouncing up the incline from the ninth green as if he were jumping on a trampoline. The cheers from patrons surrounding him were mountainous.

With nine holes to go, he had one arm in the Green Jacket with a two-shot lead, eyeing his first Masters title. He took some time to high-five a couple kids while walking, but right before reaching the tee box, he tried to step out of the arena he was in. Rose inhaled deeply, seemingly digesting what awaited him on the second nine at Augusta National Golf Club.

As the saying goes, the Masters doesn't begin until the second nine. For Rose, he knew the pressure cooker and feeling that awaited him once he descended down the 10th fairway. More: Masters leaderboard, scores, more The 45-year-old, who has found a second spark in the latter stages of his career, knew this could be his final shot to win a major championship.

It was now or never. Unfortunately for Rose, his chance at history ran into Amen Corner, which has stolen dreams of dozens of golfers over the years and will do the same in the years to come. Rose was the latest victim, resulting in a 38 on the backside.