Rory McIlroy’s 14-year journey to achieve golfing greatness culminated in an emotional US Masters victory at Augusta National on Sunday. With a three-foot putt in a sudden-death play-off, McIlroy defeated Justin Rose to secure his first Masters title and complete the prestigious career Grand Slam.
After missing a chance to win in regulation, McIlroy redeemed himself with a clutch birdie on the first extra hole, leaving his Ryder Cup teammate behind. Overcome with emotion, McIlroy roared in celebration before falling to the ground in tears, marking the end of a dramatic day.
“This has been 14 years in the making,” McIlroy said, reflecting on his close calls, including the heartbreak of the 2011 Masters where he lost a four-shot lead in the final round. “This moment makes all those years and near-misses worth it.”
Wearing the iconic Green Jacket, handed to him by last year’s champion Scottie Scheffler, McIlroy shared a heartfelt message with his family in Northern Ireland. “I can’t wait to celebrate with mum and dad next week,” he said.
Rory McIlroy now joins an elite group of six golfers who have completed the career Grand Slam, a list that includes legends like Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Gary Player. He is the first European to achieve this feat, adding another milestone to his remarkable career.
For Rose, it was another painful Masters defeat. The 44-year-old Englishman, who lost in a play-off to Sergio Garcia in 2017, showed resilience after a tough third round to push McIlroy to the limit. Despite the loss, Rose’s performance was a testament to his grit and determination.
Masters Filled with Highs and Lows
McIlroy’s victory wasn’t just historic but also one of the most thrilling of his career. Sunday’s final round was a rollercoaster, filled with moments of brilliance and challenges that tested his resolve.
Starting with a two-shot lead, McIlroy stumbled early with a double bogey on the first hole. However, he recovered with three birdies in the next seven holes, building a four-shot lead by the turn. The back nine, though, saw him drop four shots in as many holes, giving hope to his challengers.
Rose, who was seven shots back at the start of the day, made a stunning charge with six birdies in his final eight holes to force the play-off. Despite the pressure, McIlroy regrouped, delivering in the clutch to seal the win.
Throughout the week, McIlroy credited sports psychologist Bob Rotella for helping him stay mentally strong. That mental fortitude was evident on Sunday as he navigated the ups and downs with composure.
After an early setback, McIlroy rallied with birdies on the third and fourth holes. By the 10th, he had regained control with a commanding lead. But a double bogey on the 13th and another dropped shot on the 14th threatened to derail his chances.
McIlroy responded with a brilliant approach on the 15th, setting up a birdie that put him back in the hunt. A clutch birdie on the 17th kept him ahead, but a bogey on the 18th led to the play-off. Rising to the occasion, McIlroy delivered the decisive blow, capping off an unforgettable day.
“After the double bogey on the first, I felt my nerves settle a bit,” McIlroy explained. “I’m really proud of how I bounced back all week.”
Heartbreak for Rose, DeChambeau Fades
Justin Rose’s spirited performance captivated fans as he clawed his way back into contention, playing some of his best golf under pressure. Carding 10 birdies on Sunday, Rose showed why he remains a force in the sport, even if the ultimate prize eluded him.
Bryson DeChambeau, who had been a major threat after three rounds, faltered at the Masters 2025 on Sunday. Despite an early birdie that put him in the lead, he struggled to a three-over-par 75, falling out of contention.
Sweden’s Ludvig Aberg, a rising star, briefly shared the lead but dropped four shots in the final two holes, finishing seventh. Patrick Reed and Scottie Scheffler also posted strong final rounds, but neither could catch McIlroy or Rose.
Reflecting on the day, Rose graciously acknowledged McIlroy’s achievement. “This is a historic moment in golf, and it was special to share it with him,” he said. While the loss stung, Rose’s efforts ensured his role in one of the most memorable Masters finales in recent history.
Masters Prize Money
The 2025 Masters at Augusta National Golf Club boasts a record purse and winner’s share, with $21 million being paid out to this year’s field, an increase of $1 million from the 2024 Masters.
1st – $4.2 million
2nd – $2.268 million
3rd – $1.428 million
4th – $1.008 million
5th – $840,000
6th – $756,000
7th – $703,500
8th – $651,000
9th – $609,000
10th – $567,000
11th – $525,000
12th – $483,000
13th – $441,000
14th – $399,000
15th – $378,000
16th – $357,000
17th – $336,000
18th – $315,000
19th – $294,000
20th – $273,000
21st – $252,000
22nd – $235,200
23rd – $218,400
24th – $201,600
25th – $176,000
26th – $168,000
27th – $161,700
28th – $155,400
29th – $149,100
30th – $142,800
31st – $136,500
32nd – $130,200
33rd – $123,900
34th – $118,650
35th – $113,400
36th – $108,150
37th – $102,900
38th – $98,700
39th – $94,500
40th – $90,300
41st – $86,100
42nd – $81,900
43rd – $77,700
44th – $73,500
45th – $69,300
46th – $65,100
47th – $60,900
48th – $57,540
49th – $54,600
50th – $52,920
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Geoff Thomas is an award winning journalist known for his sharp insights and no-nonsense reporting style. Over the years he has worked for Reuters and the Canadian Press covering everything from political scandals to human interest stories. He brings a clear and direct approach to his work.
