Rory McIlroy reflected on his record-breaking Masters win, stating that failing to convert his massive halfway lead into a title would have been a tough pill to swallow. McIlroy made history by becoming the fourth player to win consecutive Masters titles, following his dramatic playoff victory over Justin Rose last year. Despite building a six-shot lead, the largest in Masters history, McIlroy found himself two shots behind Cameron Young during the final day after a rough start.
However, he regained his composure, carding four birdies to secure his sixth major title. McIlroy admitted that winning the Masters is incredibly difficult, and he didn't expect to win with an even-par score over the weekend. He expressed his delight at getting the job done, acknowledging that having a six-shot lead and not winning would have been disappointing.
McIlroy started the final round tied for the lead but lost ground with a double-bogey at the fourth hole. He recovered with successive birdies, adding two more from the 12th hole to take a three-shot lead with five to play.
A one-under 71 was enough to hold off Scottie Scheffler's charge. McIlroy acknowledged that he doesn't make it easy for himself, referencing his tendency to win tournaments by large margins in his early 20s. He noted that winning golf tournaments, especially at Augusta National, is always a challenge.
McIlroy completed the third leg of the Grand Slam in 2014 but had 10 unsuccessful attempts at The Masters before claiming his first Green Jacket last year. He expressed his disbelief at winning two consecutive Masters titles, stating that his perseverance has finally paid off.