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McIlroy secures second consecutive Masters victory
Rory McIlroy triumphed at Augusta National on Sunday, becoming only the fourth golfer to win the Masters in successive years. The Northern Irishman finished at 12 under par, one stroke ahead of world number one Scottie Scheffler.
Final leaderboard highlights
McIlroy's final-round 71 sealed his sixth major championship, equaling Sir Nick Faldo's tally. Scheffler, the 2022 and 2024 champion, finished second at 11 under, while England's Tyrrell Hatton, Americans Russell Henley and Cameron Young, and Justin Rose shared third place at 10 under.
McIlroy's journey to victory
Last year's Masters win marked the end of an 11-year major drought for McIlroy, who believed it would transform his approach to the game. His confidence was evident as he built a six-shot lead by the halfway stage, despite struggles with his driving accuracy.
Saturday's third round saw McIlroy's advantage shrink as he failed to capitalize on favorable conditions. However, he adjusted his strategy on Sunday, prioritizing accuracy over distance to card a crucial one-under 71.
"I can't believe I waited 17 years to get one Green Jacket and now I get two in a row. All my perseverance at this golf course over the years has started to pay off."
Rory McIlroy
Rose's near-miss and Scheffler's consistency
Justin Rose, 45, nearly became the oldest first-time Masters champion but faltered on the back nine. After taking a one-shot lead midway through his final round, Rose dropped shots at the 11th and 12th holes, ultimately finishing at 10 under. This marked his fourth runners-up finish at Augusta.
"It is another little stinger. I was by no means free and clear, but I was right in position."
Justin Rose
Scheffler, meanwhile, made history by becoming the first player since 1942 to complete a bogey-free weekend at the Masters. Despite his consistency, he fell short of catching McIlroy, finishing one stroke behind.
Hatton finds peace at Augusta
Tyrrell Hatton, who had previously criticized Augusta National as "unfair," recorded his best finish at the Masters with a final-round 66. The Englishman shared third place at 10 under, capping a weekend of improved performance.
"This is my 10th Masters, so I've been fortunate to be here a lot and my results the last three years have definitely improved."
Tyrrell Hatton
McIlroy's transformation
McIlroy reflected on how last year's victory changed his mindset, allowing him to play with greater freedom and resilience. He credited his ability to adapt and stay patient as key factors in his back-to-back triumphs.
"It was a tough weekend but I'm so happy to hang in there and get the job done. I wanted to come back and prove last year wasn't a fluke."
Rory McIlroy
