Rory McIlroy Shares Personal Message Tiger Woods Sent Him After First Masters Win
McIlroy didn't claim the victory without drama. The Masters had eluded him for over a decade, and despite coming close in previous years, he entered Sunday with a two-shot lead. After losing it and then regaining it, McIlroy found himself in a playoff with Justin Rose at 11-under. He sealed the win with a birdie, dropping to his knees in a moment of clear relief and emotion.
On Thursday, McIlroy appeared on the "Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon." When asked about what his good friend and legendary golfer Tiger Woods had said to him after his victory, McIlroy shared the heartfelt message Woods sent him.
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"Welcome to the club, kid," McIlroy revealed Woods texted him.
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McIlroy became the first male golfer from Northern Ireland to win the Masters, marking his first major victory in 11 years.
Woods also took to social media hours after McIlroy's win, posting: "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!"
Rory McIlroy following the 2025 Masters.© Michael Madrid-Imagn Images
Tiger was unable to compete in this year's Masters after suffering a ruptured Achilles while training just weeks before the event. He had hoped to make his return to Augusta, a tournament he's won five times, but now he'll hope to make a full recovery by next years competition.
Related: A Blow-by-Blow of McIlroy's Masters Win
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