Rory McIlroy Clinches Career Grand Slam at 2025 Masters in Dramatic Playoff

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Rory McIlroy finally fulfilled a long-awaited dream by winning the 2025 Masters Tournament, securing his place in golf history as the sixth player to complete the career Grand Slam. The 35-year-old golfer from Northern Ireland triumphed over Justin Rose in a thrilling sudden-death playoff on Sunday, capping off one of the most emotional chapters of his career.

In an electrifying final round at Augusta National Golf Club, McIlroy finished with a 1-over 73, tying Rose at 11-under par after the latter’s strong performance. Rose, who shot a remarkable 66 and made a critical birdie on the 72nd hole to force the playoff, pushed McIlroy to the brink.

“This is my 17th time here, and I started to wonder if it would ever be my time,” McIlroy said after his win. “The last 10 years coming here with the burden of the Grand Slam on my shoulders has been tough.”

During the playoff on the par-4 18th hole, both players found the fairway off the tee, setting up a dramatic conclusion. Rose’s approach shot nearly sank into the hole, landing about 15 feet past, while McIlroy’s perfectly placed iron shot left him just 4 feet from the cup. After Rose missed his birdie attempt, McIlroy made his putt, securing his first green jacket.

“I feel like all the years and all the close calls were worth it,” McIlroy remarked as he celebrated, visibly emotional. He later thanked his family, caddie Harry Diamond, and his team during the trophy presentation. “They’ve been on this journey with me the whole way through,” he said.

Tiger Woods, a five-time Masters champion, congratulated McIlroy on social media, acknowledging the significance of his win. “Completing the Grand Slam at Augusta is special,” Woods posted. “Your determination during this round has shown through, and now you’re a part of history.”

McIlroy led the tournament comfortably in the early stages, but a double-bogey on the 13th hole and further struggles on the subsequent holes allowed Rose to catch up. Reflecting on the pressure, McIlroy stated, “It’s a moment I’ll never forget. To come through after the hard times is rewarding.”

This victory marks McIlroy’s fifth major championship title, making it his first in over a decade, with previous wins including the 2011 U.S. Open and the 2014 Open Championship. After 11 attempts, McIlroy has finally secured the elusive Grand Slam, joining golfing greats like Gene Sarazen and Jack Nicklaus.

The total purse for the 2025 Masters was a record $21 million, with McIlroy taking home $4.2 million, a testament to his remarkable achievement. Competing alongside him were notable players including Bryson DeChambeau and past champions, solidifying the event as a hallmark of excellence in professional golf.

As he slipped on the iconic green jacket, McIlroy smiled, knowing that while he must return it to Augusta National after a year, he has now secured a permanent spot in the pantheon of golf legends. “They’re going to have to wheel me out of here when I’m 90 years old,” he quipped about his hopes to return to the Masters.