DANNY BUOYED

First big test since September shoulder op leaves former champ 'feeling smiles better

- NEIL McLEMAN

DANNY WILLETT started his first round after shoulder surgery fearing he would look a "fool" at the Masters - and ended up near the top of the leaderboard.

The 2016 champion, who went under the knife in September, defied doctors' orders to make his return here.

And he found the perfect tonic by shooting an "unexpected" 68.

The world No.260 trailed clubhouse leader Bryson DeChambeau (right) by three shots after the LIV Golf star carded a sensational 65.

Overnight rain delayed the start by two-and-a-half hours, but the forecasted thunderstorms skirted around Augusta National. Gusting 20mph winds were the biggest obstacle with the greens softened.

Yorkshire's Willett showed the grit which saw him get back to action a year ahead of schedule after six weeks in a cast before an extensive rehab programme.