Rory McIlroy’s pursuit of the career Grand Slam at The Masters has garnered support from none other than Tiger Woods himself. The legendary golfer believes that it’s only a matter of time before McIlroy claims victory at Augusta National and joins the exclusive club of players who have won all four major titles.
McIlroy, currently ranked world No. 2, has come close to winning The Masters in the past, posting top-10 finishes in half of his 14 previous appearances at the prestigious event. This year marks his ninth attempt at completing the career Grand Slam, a feat achieved by golfing greats such as Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Woods himself.
Woods, speaking at his pre-tournament press conference, expressed confidence in McIlroy’s abilities, stating, “He [McIlroy] will [complete the career Grand Slam]; it’s just a matter of time. Rory has the talent. He has the game. He has all the tools to win here. It’s just a matter of time.” Woods went on to acknowledge the challenges of Augusta National but emphasized that McIlroy has shown over the years that he has learned how to play the course and has put himself in contention before.
“A lot of things have to happen to win at this golf course. A lot of things have to go right. I think Rory has shown over the years he’s learned how to play this golf course, and you just have to understand how to play it,” said Woods. “He has been there. Last year he made a great run, put himself there. I think that it’s just a matter of time, whether it’s this year or next or whenever it comes, he will get it done, and he will have a career Grand Slam. It’s just what year it will be – it will definitely happen.”
McIlroy’s recent form adds to the optimism surrounding his chances at The Masters. He has already secured a win at the Dubai Desert Classic this season and finished third at the WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play last month, showcasing his skill and competitive spirit. With his talent, experience, and determination, McIlroy is considered one of the top contenders at this year’s tournament.
The elusive career Grand Slam, which requires a player to win all four major championships in golf – The Masters, the U.S. Open, the British Open, and the PGA Championship – is a remarkable accomplishment that only a handful of players have achieved in the history of the sport. McIlroy, who has previously won the other three majors, has his sights set on completing this rare feat, and Woods believes it’s only a matter of time before McIlroy joins the esteemed group of players who have achieved the career Grand Slam.
As McIlroy tees off at Augusta National for this year’s Masters, golf fans around the world will be watching with anticipation, eager to see if he can fulfill his quest for the career Grand Slam.
With the support of Woods and his own unwavering determination, McIlroy remains confident in his abilities and will undoubtedly give it his all in pursuit of this historic achievement. Whether it happens this year or in the future, one thing is clear – Rory McIlroy’s pursuit of the career Grand Slam is a story worth following in the world of golf.
Leon Osamor
