Before winning the Masters, Rory McIlroy’s psychologist shares the golfer’s acceptance Friends and colleagues have hailed Rory McIlroy’s Masters triumph as “one of the greatest days in sport” following the golfer’s psychologist’s account of how he survived an 11-year major drought. Only six players have won all four major championships, including the 35-year-old Northern Irishman who won the Masters.
McIlroy had not won a major since the 2014 US PGA Championship, and his victory at Augusta elicited passionate and celebratory emotions.
Ryder Cup winning captain Paul McGinley speaks to the UK. Speaking to Sarah-Jane Mee today about his historic victory, McIlroy said, “I think the human element is what brought people into it.” “They all know the trials and tribulations Rory has had in the last couple of years, the near misses and the opportunities he’s let slip through his fingers,” he said. “Everyone enjoys a redemption story, much like a Hollywood film.”Sport at its finest, it was truly remarkable. McGinley said McIlroy’s victory “had everything” and was “up there with one of the greatest days in sport I’ve ever seen.” I was in tears. Actor James Nesbitt, from Northern Ireland, also discussed the victory with Mark Austin on Sky News’ The News Hour. Nesbitt stated, “I couldn’t be happier for anybody… Personally, I was pleased and wept.”
“Even though Rory was a young boy, he was always a beacon of hope, because we looked for those things if Northern Ireland was to evolve,” Nesbitt remarked, implying that McIlroy’s win was vital for their common country. “He seemed kind of emblematic of change, you know, and someone that put a smile on the faces of everyone here, everyone in Northern Ireland and the island of Ireland today would have woken up happy and proud.” After McIlroy’s victory, noted sports psychologist Bob Rotella reportedly remarked, “You never win the way you dream it.” This is how McIlroy developed “resilience.” Rotella talked to McIlroy during the tournament. “Everyone’s talking about his resilience, that’s something he’s worked really hard to develop,” Rotella said.
Prior to his Masters victory, McIlroy repeatedly came close but lost at the final second, ending an 11-year run of major tournament success. He’s had to come to terms with the fact that, regardless of your skill level or level of skill, you will miss a lot of shots,” Rotella said. “We talk a lot about if you love golf, you’ve got to love that it’s a game of mistakes.” According to Rotella, he texted McIlroy “long text” before the tournament, saying they will meet and discuss each day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How did Rory McIlroy become a professional golfer?
Rory McIlroy began playing golf at a very young age in Northern Ireland. He was introduced to the sport by his father, Gerry McIlroy, who worked multiple jobs to support Rory’s golfing dreams. By the time Rory was a child, it was clear he was a golf prodigy. He appeared on TV at the age of 9, showing off his skills.
As a teenager, McIlroy had a very successful amateur career. He won several titles, including the 2006 European Amateur Championship, and was part of the Great Britain & Ireland Walker Cup team. His talent and consistency caught the attention of many in the golf world.
Rory turned professional in September 2007, right after playing in the Walker Cup. He made his debut at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship in Scotland. His early performances on the European Tour were strong, and by 2009, he had already won his first professional tournament—the Dubai Desert Classic.
2. Did Rory donate his Masters winnings?
While Rory McIlroy has not specifically donated his Masters Tournament winnings (as he has not yet won the Masters), he has a strong record of philanthropy. In 2013, he established the Rory Foundation, which supports children’s charities. Over the years, he has donated millions to various causes, including cancer research, children’s hospitals, and youth programs.
He also donated his entire winnings (over $1.2 million) from the 2016 Irish Open to his foundation. So while he hasn’t donated Masters winnings—because he hasn’t won the event—he is well known for his generous charitable contributions.
3. What did Jack Nicklaus say about Rory McIlroy?
Jack Nicklaus, one of the greatest golfers of all time, has spoken highly of Rory McIlroy on multiple occasions. He has praised Rory’s natural talent, powerful swing, and athleticism. In particular, Nicklaus once said:
“Rory has more pure talent than anybody I’ve ever seen.”
Nicklaus has also mentioned that Rory has the ability to win all four majors and become one of the all-time greats. However, he has also gently encouraged Rory to stay focused and consistent, especially when it comes to winning the Masters, which has eluded McIlroy.
4. What year did Rory McIlroy almost win the Masters?
Rory McIlroy came very close to winning the Masters in 2011. He led the tournament after the first three rounds and entered the final round with a four-shot lead. However, on Sunday, he had a major collapse, shooting a final-round 80, and finished tied for 15th place.
This heartbreaking loss was one of the most dramatic moments in Masters history, but Rory bounced back strongly. Just two months later, he won the U.S. Open in dominant fashion.
5. What does Nike pay Rory McIlroy?
Rory McIlroy signed a huge endorsement deal with Nike in 2013 reportedly worth $100 million over 10 years. In 2017, he renewed his contract with Nike for another long-term deal, which is also estimated to be in the range of $100–$200 million, though the exact terms are confidential.
While Nike no longer makes golf clubs (they exited that business in 2016), Rory still wears Nike apparel and shoes. His deal is one of the most lucrative endorsement contracts in professional golf.
6. Why were Rory McIlroy’s parents not at the Masters?
Rory McIlroy’s parents have been seen at many of his tournaments, but they were not present at the 2024 Masters Tournament. The reason was not due to any family issues but simply a personal choice. Rory has spoken about focusing more on his own mindset and performance during majors and sometimes prefers to keep his support circle smaller for those events.
There was no public controversy or health concern—it was just a private family decision. Rory still speaks very highly of his parents and credits them for his success.
