Rory McIlroy has finally won the Masters, securing a career Grand Slam after a dramatic sudden-death play-off against Justin Rose at Augusta National. Entering the final round with a two-shot lead, McIlroy held his nerve and birdied the first play-off hole to claim his long-awaited green jacket. The emotional victory marked a triumphant comeback from his heartbreak at the 2011 Masters and earned him praise from around the world, including calls in Northern Ireland for a knighthood. King Charles and Northern Ireland’s First Minister and deputy Prime Minister joined in celebrating McIlroy’s remarkable achievement.

Among the high-profile admirers was U.S. President Donald Trump, who, as a golfer himself, applauded McIlroy’s courage and resilience, calling the win “amazing” and praising the pressure the players faced. Trump highlighted the intense mental and physical demands of golf at that level, commending both McIlroy and Rose for their performance. While tributes from leaders and institutions poured in, it was the emotional embrace between McIlroy and his close friend Shane Lowry after the win that truly captured the moment’s significance—one of relief, pride, and shared understanding.