Rory McIlroy Reflects on a Memorable Year After Second Irish Open Win
Rory McIlroy celebrated what he called "a pretty cool year" after securing his second Irish Open title, following his earlier triumph at the Masters. The world No. 2 completed the career grand slam with his victory at Augusta in April and added another achievement on Sunday by winning his home tournament for the second time, edging out Joakim Lagergren in a gripping playoff.
McIlroy needed an eagle on the final hole just to force the playoff after Lagergren's own spectacular eagle at the 16th. The first two extra holes ended with both players making birdie, but Lagergren found the water on the third playoff hole, allowing McIlroy to seal the win with two putts.
McIlroy, who previously won the event at the same course in 2016, said: “I feel incredibly fortunate to have this moment in front of these fans. The support all week has been unbelievable. To play the way I did and come out on top means so much.”
He added: “Last year, I had a putt to force a playoff at [Royal County Down] that just missed, so making that eagle at the 18th felt like a bit of redemption. I aimed to be bold with it—what an incredible feeling when it dropped, giving me that chance in the playoff. It felt like a battle of nerves. Joakim’s second shot in the playoff opened the door, and I’m thrilled to take my second Irish Open title.”
With the Ryder Cup approaching at Bethpage later this month, McIlroy remarked: “Between what I achieved earlier this year and now winning my national open, no matter what happens next, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best years of my career. But there’s still more ahead—next week at Wentworth is a big one, and then, of course, the Ryder Cup is something we’re all excited for.”
McIlroy and Lagergren were part of a five-way tie for the lead at 14 under when the final group made the turn on Sunday. Angel Hidalgo, who had moved into second place with a remarkable 63 on Saturday, finished tied for third at 15 under alongside Rafa Cabrera Bello, who ignited his round with a hole-in-one at the 3rd. A third Spaniard, Angel Ayora, shared fifth place with third-round leader Adrien Saddier.
Read next
Raducanu's Journey from Rome to French Open Fitness Challenge Raises Future Questions
Emma Raducanu was among the first to pass through the imposing gates of the Foro Italico this year. She arrived in Rome ahead of schedule, keen to assess her fitness and readiness for elite competition during a series of practice sessions on the tournament’s heavy red‑clay courts. As
Winter Paralympics athletes furious over schedule as massive thaw disrupts events
In Cortina d’Ampezzo, the thaw has arrived. Daytime temperatures are climbing into the double‑digit Celsius range, causing snow to melt from the slopes and the “torrenti” of runoff to begin flowing again.
Usually a period when snowfall can be at its peak, the region has seen none since
France to don pale blue kit in England clash amid looming kit dispute
England’s Six Nations showdown in Paris on Saturday might turn into a comedy of errors as France prepare to sport a commemorative pale‑blue jersey that could conflict with the white uniform worn by Steve Borthwick’s team.
Fabian Galthié’s side has announced it will wear the anniversary