Rory McIlroy finally claims Masters victory to complete career Grand Slam

In the United States on April 13, 2025, Rory McIlroy won the Masters Tournament, overcoming intense competition and personal challenges to secure his fifth major championship. Throughout the final round, McIlroy faced fluctuating fortunes, starting with a two-shot lead that quickly diminished due to a series of mistakes, including a double bogey on the 13th hole. As the round progressed, McIlroy found himself in a tense battle with Justin Rose, who closed the day with an impressive final-round score of 66. Entering the 18th hole, McIlroy only needed a par to win, but he bogeyed, which forced a sudden-death playoff with Rose, who had matched him at 11 under par. During the playoff on the 18th hole, McIlroy recovered his composure to sink a birdie putt, while Rose was unable to make his birdie attempt, allowing McIlroy to secure the championship. This victory is particularly significant as it enables McIlroy to join an elite group of only six golfers in history who have completed the career Grand Slam, previously accomplished by legends in the sport such as Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus. This win not only ends an 11-year major drought for McIlroy but marks a culmination of years overcoming personal and professional challenges, including a notorious collapse at the 2011 Masters. In celebration of his achievement, McIlroy will also receive $4.2 million along with the Masters green jacket. Many have noted how McIlroy's journey to this moment reflects resilience and determination, particularly as he emerged victorious on a course that has challenged him profoundly in the past. Having grown from a talented child prodigy into a seasoned golfer, McIlroy's career trajectory speaks to his unwavering commitment to the sport and to achieving his lifelong dream.