Watson wraps up opening round of the Masters with 2-over 74

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Bubba Watson speaks with a rules official on No. 15 during the first round of the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. SARA CORCE/STAFF

Bubba Watson estimates that he misjudged the wind at least a few times during his opening round at Augusta National on Thursday.

But he still managed to finish the round at 2-over 74 and tied for 26th heading into Friday’s second round.

“It was tough,” Watson said of the windy conditions. “I would say right off hand there were probably three times I misjudged the wind and a three-putt on the first hole doesn’t help.”

Watson bogeyed the first hole — he had three on the first nine holes — and shot 2-over 38 on the front. He opened the second nine with a bogey on No. 10, but made consecutive birdies on the 13th and 14th . He capped the first round with a bogey on No. 18.

The two-time Masters champion and former University of Georgia golfer also played with a smaller group than expected. Dustin Johnson, who was scheduled to be in the group, withdrew before the round got underway Thursday afternoon. He injured his back in a fall at his rental home in Augusta on Wednesday afternoon.

“We’re not thinking about is he playing or not, we’re thinking is he healthy or strong,” said Watson, who played with a pink ball. “Wouldn’t wish that on anybody.”

Watson will tee off at 10:56 a.m. Friday.