Rory McIlroy’s fans at his home-town golf club erupted as he clinched Masters glory – despite not being allowed to toast his success.
McIlroy etched his name in history as he completed a career grand slam with a remarkable play-off win over Justin Rose, sparking jubilant scenes 3,000 miles away at Holywood Golf Club.
The club’s bar licence meant last orders were called at 10pm, with those ordering before needing to down their drinks by 10.30pm. McIlroy still has his own parking space in the car park, and fans faced hours of drama as he finally ended his 11-year wait for a fifth major.
“I was absolutely sick with nerves,” Holywood Golf Club’s lady captain Ruth Watt told the BBC. “We thought he had thrown it away … but it was an unbelievable finish. I’m going home for a gin and tonic.”
McIlroy grew up in Holywood and his school, Sullivan Upper, awards green blazers to pupils who excel at sport. Some sixth formers watched their idol wearing their own green blazers.
The 35-year-old wept tears of joy after sinking the winning putt at Augusta, embracing his wife of eight years, Erica Stoll. He then knelt down to hug daughter Poppy in emotionally charged scenes on the course.
Tiger Woods welcomed McIlroy to golf’s most exclusive club after his dramatic victory.
McIlroy joined Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Ben Hogan and Gene Sarazen in having won all four major titles.
“Welcome to the club @McIlroyRory,” Woods posted on social media. “Completing the grand slam at Augusta is something special. Your determination during this round, and this entire journey has shown through, and now you’re a part of history. Proud of you!”
Welcome to the club @McIlroyRory. Completing the grand slam at Augusta is something special. Your determination during this round, and this entire journey has shown through, and now you're a part of history. Proud of you!
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) April 14, 2025
McIlroy’s close friend Shane Lowry joked that McIlroy could happily retire after completing the career grand slam.
“This means everything to him,” Lowry told Golf Channel. “This is all he thinks about, all he talks about. He always said to me he’d retire a happy man if he won the Green Jacket, so I told Erica he can retire ...
