Rory McIlroy's mental health coach has weighed in on his Masters win and described it as “awesome” to see how his performance.
On Sunday, the Northern Irish golfer secured victory at the Augusta National in a nail biting final round.
On Newstalk Breakfast, mental health coach Bob Rotella, author of Make Your Next Shot Your Best Shot, said his win was never certain.
“Rory was smart enough to recognise that he played a really great round of golf up until 15,” he said.
“And even at 15, he felt like he hit a really nice drive but the second shot, it almost hit the flag and went over the back.
“And he felt like he really pitch and the greens had suddenly got so firm and fast; I think he was shocked with how firm the green was.”
Never give up on your dreams. Keep coming back. Keep working hard. pic.twitter.com/YFIWrvAnUZ
— Rory McIlroy (@McIlroyRory) April 16, 2025
Dr Rotella added that the dramatic final made McIlroy’s win even more special.
“Most of the great stories in the history of sport have been come backstories,” he recalled telling McIlroy.
“You’ve just set yourself to have a great comeback; this is just going to be another chapter in your life story.
“Let’s go make it a great comeback story.”
Dreams do come true. pic.twitter.com/6WiHrVIjNl
— Rory McIlroy (@McIlroyRory) April 14, 2025
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He added that after he came off the 18th green, he was “so excited” for McIlroy.
“I couldn’t wait to greet him and give him a big hug, a big high five and just tell him how great he played and that was awesome,” he said.
“Because it really was. I mean, to come back after Thursday and shoot 66 got him right back in the tournament.”
After his win, McIlroy thanked his wife and parents for their support, adding he was looking forward to heading back to Northern Ireland to celebrate with them.
Main image: Rory McIlroy. Picture by: AP Photo/Matt Slocum.
