Rory McIlroy Completes Career Grand Slam with Masters Victory

After years of near misses at Augusta National, Rory McIlroy has finally captured the elusive green jacket, defeating Justin Rose in a thrilling one-hole playoff to win the 2025 Masters Tournament.

A Sunday Rollercoaster

McIlroy's path to victory was anything but smooth. Starting the day with a two-shot lead over Bryson DeChambeau, he immediately faltered with a double bogey on the first hole. What followed was a day of tremendous ups and downs that tested the Northern Irishman's resolve.

Meanwhile, Justin Rose mounted a serious challenge, firing a brilliant six-under 66 to post a clubhouse lead at 11-under par. McIlroy battled back with clutch birdies on the 15th and 17th holes to take a one-shot lead to the 18th, only to find a bunker and make bogey, forcing the playoff.

Playoff Perfection

In the playoff, McIlroy delivered when it mattered most. His approach shot set up a 12-foot birdie putt that found the center of the cup, sending the Augusta National crowd into a frenzy.

"I've wanted this one so badly for so long," McIlroy said during the green jacket ceremony. "Today I just tried to play with freedom and joy, and it finally happened."

Making History

With this victory, McIlroy becomes just the sixth golfer in history to complete the career Grand Slam, joining Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods. At 35, he has now won five major championships, solidifying his place among golf's all-time greats.

The win comes 14 years after his first major championship at the 2011 U.S. Open and follows previous victories at the PGA Championship (2012, 2014) and The Open Championship (2014).

Fans across social media celebrated McIlroy's historic achievement, with many noting the poetic justice of his redemption at Augusta after his infamous 2011 collapse.

The PGA Tour continues next week with the RBC Heritage, with the PGA Championship set for May 15th as the next major on the calendar.