Masters officials make decision on British golf star after angry scenes at Augusta

Multiple outlets had reported that the World No 8 risked facing sanctions before confirmation emerged that Augusta National had addressed the matter directly with him.

The Ryder Cup player cut a visibly frustrated figure throughout his round, particularly during a difficult stretch on the back nine where his score deteriorated significantly.

Television microphones picked up the 29-year-old using profane language on several occasions as his round unravelled.

MacIntyre was also captured slamming his club forcefully into the turf on both the 14th and 17th fairways in displays of visible anger.

Perhaps most notably, the left-hander was observed making a brief middle finger gesture after his ball found the water hazard on the 15th hole.

That particular hole proved catastrophic for the Scot, who went on to record a quadruple-bogey nine after visiting the water twice.

MacIntyre declined to speak with journalists after completing his round.

The opening round of 80 represented a shocking performance from a player who had arrived at Augusta among the tournament favourites.

His scorecard showed just one birdie against three bogeys, a double-bogey and the damaging quadruple on the 15th.

MacIntyre's recent form had suggested he was primed for a strong showing, having finished runner-up at last year's US Open for his best major result to date.

He also claimed fourth place at The Players Championship and tied for second at the Texas Open in his two most recent events.

The Scot now faces a battle to make the cut on Friday, with failure meaning back-to-back missed cuts at Augusta National.

Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy will be hoping for another fine showing on Friday.

The Northern Irishman sits top with a score of -5 heading into day two, with the 36-year-old chasing another triumph following his win over Justin Rose 12 months ago.