‘We were a mess' – Rory McIlroy opens up for the first time on emotional reunion with parents following Masters win
RORY MCILROY admitted he was "a mess" during his emotional reunion with his parents after winning The Masters.
The Northern Irishman claimed the Green Jacket after beating Justin Rose in a play-off at Augusta.
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It meant he achieved a career grand slam and got his hands on the fifth major of his career.
McIlroy was emotional immediately after he sunk his putt to win, dropping to his knees in relief before letting out a cry.
He later broke down in tears after speaking about his parents Gerry and Rosie and the sacrifices they made to support his career.
McIlroy, 36, flew back to London after his Masters win before a trip to Holywood, Northern Ireland, to see his mum and dad.
Speaking ahead of the Truist Championship, McIlroy described how emotional he became during the reunion.
He said: 'I just wanted to see my parents and the people that were closest to me, and we had a really nice two days.
'With my dad, like I never get that emotional with my dad. It was great. It was great to see him.
'Then when I saw my mom, I-yeah, we were both a mess for a few minutes.'
McIlroy revealed his parents watched the Masters win from their home in Northern Ireland - as they were in the middle of moving house.
He called them from the course as he sat on a buggy, minutes after first being presented with the Green Jacket.
'That one got me' - Rory McIlroy reveals hilarious Elton John exchange after winning The Masters
As he collected his prize from Scottie Scheffler, McIlroy paid a tearful tribute to his parents.
He said: 'I would say it was 14 years in the making, going out with a four-shot lead in 2011, you're feeling like I could have got it done there.
'There was a lot of pent-up emotion that came out on that 18th green.
'But a moment like that makes all the years and all the close calls worth it.
'I want to say hello to my mum and dad, they're back home in Northern Ireland.
'They did (make a lot of sacrifices). I can't wait to see them next week. Just can't wait to celebrate this with them.'
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