Tiger Woods welcomed Rory McIlroy to golf’s most exclusive club after his dramatic victory in the Masters. McIlroy, born in Holywood, Co Down, defeated Justin Rose on the first hole of a playoff at Augusta National to join 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. Proud of you!”
Player, now 89, completed the grand slam in 1965 on his way to nine major wins. We are proud to add Rory to our exclusive club and no doubt he has set the standard for his era.
“Rory has made his mark on history, and all of us who love this game are incredibly proud. It will take the world off his shoulders and you’re now going to see a lot more of really good golf out of Rory McIlroy.”
McIlroy’s close friend and fellow player Shane Lowry joked that McIlroy could happily retire after completing the career grand slam. “This is a huge moment in sporting history, and one that has filled everyone back home with great pride and that will undoubtedly inspire future generations to chase their dreams,” she posted on X.
