Inside the Exclusive Masters Champions Dinner: McIlroy's Menu Revealed

Rory McIlroy's maiden Masters title has earned him a seat at the head of the prestigious Champions Dinner table, where he will host a gathering of golfing legends ahead of his title defence. The 'Masters Club', also known as the 'Champions Dinner', is an annual tradition that dates back to 1952, when Ben Hogan first invited past winners to dine together before his title defence. This exclusive event is reserved for past Masters champions and the current chairman, with the reigning champion given the privilege of setting the menu and drinks list. McIlroy, who ended his wait for a fifth major title by defeating Justin Rose in a playoff last year, has chosen a diverse range of dishes and wines for the dinner, each with a special significance to him. The menu includes bacon-wrapped dates inspired by his mother's cooking, yellowfin tuna carpaccio from his favourite New York restaurant, and 'traditional Irish Champ', a dish he used to eat as a child. The wine list features a selection of fine wines, including the 1990 Chateau Lafite Rothschild, which McIlroy drank on the night he won the Masters. The cost of hosting the meal falls to the defending champion, with the average price of McIlroy's wine choices exceeding $1,000 per bottle. Despite the expense, McIlroy is thrilled to be hosting the dinner and is looking forward to sharing the experience with his fellow champions. The Champions Dinner is a unique and special event that celebrates the rich history and tradition of the Masters, and McIlroy's menu is sure to be a hit with the attendees. As the defending champion, McIlroy will sit at the head of the table, alongside the chairman and other golfing legends, including Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and Tom Watson. The dinner is a time for the champions to come together, share stories, and reminisce about their experiences at the Masters. It is a truly special occasion, and one that McIlroy is honoured to be a part of. With his menu and wine list revealed, all that's left is for the champions to gather and enjoy a night of fine dining and camaraderie. The Masters is just around the corner, and the excitement is building. Who will win the coveted Green Jacket this year? Watch the action unfold exclusively live on Sky Sports.