McIlroy Opens Up on Grand Slam Glory

Exclusive Interview with Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy, the world No 2 golfer, has spoken candidly about his journey to completing the career Grand Slam at The Masters in 2025. In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, McIlroy reflected on his historic victory, which marked the first time a European golfer had achieved the feat.

Overcoming Doubts and Achieving Glory

McIlroy, who had been searching for his fifth major title for 11 years, admitted that he had doubts about ever winning The Masters. Despite having several near-misses in previous attempts, including a four-shot lead that slipped away in 2011 and a final-round collapse in 2018, McIlroy persevered and ultimately achieved his dream.
“I felt like I’d had loads of chances before,” McIlroy said. “I ended up winning The Masters at 35, but I had a chance when I was 21. I also had a chance when I was 28. I’ve had a few more chances in between, and as your career goes on, you know, you feel like that window is closing.”

A Roller-Coaster Sunday

McIlroy’s victory was far from straightforward, with the Northern Irishman facing a roller-coaster Sunday at Augusta National. He took a two-shot advantage into the final round, but temporarily moved four ahead before suffering a double-bogey at the par-five 13th. McIlroy eventually secured the win in a play-off against Justin Rose, making a close-range birdie on the first play-off hole to spark emotional celebrations.
“The reaction was years of going there and trying and failing,” McIlroy explained. “But it was also all the years before that, when I would sit down in my family room with my dad in Holywood and watch The Masters as a boy and a father, just thinking about playing that tournament one day.”

A Historic Year for McIlroy

McIlroy’s Grand Slam victory was just one of several highlights from a remarkable 2025. The Northern Irishman also won the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and The Players on the PGA Tour, before claiming an epic play-off victory at the DP World Tour’s Amgen Irish Open. McIlroy was also a key part of Europe’s historic Ryder Cup success at Bethpage Black, contributing 3.5 points during their 15-13 away victory over Team USA.
“I think I always believed it was possible – I wouldn’t say it if I didn’t think it was,” McIlroy said. “You’ve got all these goals and these hopes and these dreams, whenever you turn the page to a new calendar year. I felt like I was coming off the back of a really good end to 2024 and felt like I could ride that momentum into the start of 2025.”

Conclusion

Rory McIlroy’s journey to completing the career Grand Slam is a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the sport. From overcoming doubts and achieving glory to reflecting on a historic year, McIlroy’s story is one that will inspire golfers and fans alike for years to come.

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