Rory McIlroy is feeling buoyant ahead of another Master’s campaign where he hopes to finally seal the deal on a career grand slam.
The Northern Irishman only has a Masters title missing from his major haul, the green jacket proving most elusive for one of golf’s greatest talents. But this year is not like the others. For the first time, McIlroy has already bagged two titles before the Masters: First at Pebble Beach in February and now at The Players this past weekend.
And this is despite not playing his best golf, as he admitted.
“By no means did I have my best stuff this week,” McIlroy told ESPN after his win at TPC Sawgrass.
“But I was still able to win one of the biggest tournaments in the world. That’s a huge thing.”
Part of McIlroy’s issue was his driving, as he hit just 28 of the 56 fairways around the iconic course. However, he rallied with his short game and putting.
Should McIlroy be on form with the driver – with which he is overpowering most courses – Augusta could prove a walk in the park.
“I feel like I’m a more complete player,” added the 35-year-old.
“I feel like I can play in all conditions and anything that comes my way. It doesn’t feel like I’m making those mistakes at the critical times like I was previously. I think a big part of that was just learning from those mistakes.
“It’s a long career. You have to stay incredibly patient. I would say that some of those losses have helped me learn what to do when I’m in those positions again.”
The 89th edition of Masters tees off at Augusta National on 10 April.
