McIlroy Embarks on a New Chapter at The Masters: Can He Create More History?

Rory McIlroy's preparation for The Masters has been a unique experience, one that he has fully embraced after making history in the golfing world. Having experimented with various build-up scenarios during his 17 previous appearances at Augusta National, McIlroy finally found the winning formula to achieve his childhood dream of completing the career Grand Slam. Many have questioned whether McIlroy's motivation would wane after realizing his dream, but he has welcomed every part of his title defense, arriving earlier than ever to support multiple events and prepare for another push for major glory. 'It's been a mix of business and pleasure,' McIlroy said. 'I've prepared, tried to do a lot of my work in the weeks leading up here at home, then the trips that I made up here to prepare and get familiar with the course again.' McIlroy has been handed an early-late start for the first two days alongside Players champion Cameron Young and US Amateur winner Mason Howell. He has been aware of the fresh opportunities ahead of him to create further history, as a successful title defense would see him match Sir Nick Faldo's all-time major tally and become just the fourth player ever to win back-to-back editions of The Masters. McIlroy is aware that he has to completely reset for the defense of his title, and he has been working on his game, feeling very relaxed and good about his chances. The Masters starts today, and McIlroy is ready to take on the challenge, with a big weight off his shoulders after achieving his Grand Slam dream.