What every week. What an absolute rollercoaster of a Masters.Being again on the grounds of Augusta Nationwide for the 14th time within the final 16 years is at all times a privilege, however this 12 months felt completely different proper from the beginning. The power across the course, from the patrons to the press room, was buzzing with one central storyline: Rory McIlroy and his long-awaited quest for the profession Grand Slam.
That buzz wasn’t simply hype. There was an actual sense that this would possibly lastly be the 12 months Rory slips on the inexperienced jacket. And in the long run, he did simply that. However not with out giving us one of the dramatic Sundays in latest reminiscence. The afternoon felt like a triple-loop rollercoaster. For each dangerous shot he hit. And let’s not sugarcoat it, some have been brutal, just like the stubbed wedge on 18 in regulation or the mishit into Rae’s Creek on 13, he discovered a solution to struggle again with one thing sensible.
Rory’s strategy on 15, his tee shot on 16, and his regular hand within the playoff weren’t simply good. They have been iconic. After we look again on this Masters in 5, ten, or twenty years, these would be the pictures we speak about. These would be the moments that dwell on.
For followers of the sport, Rory’s win wasn’t only a win. It was the closing chapter in considered one of golf’s longest-running storylines. He’s now the sixth participant in historical past to finish the profession Grand Slam, becoming a member of essentially the most elite firm within the sport. That’s no small feat. That’s golf historical past.
However after all, the story doesn’t finish right here.
Scottie Scheffler could have been overshadowed this week, however make no mistake. He’s nonetheless the primary participant on the earth. He has the sport, the composure, and the mindset to be subsequent in line for a Grand Slam dialog. Whether or not he bounces again instantly or not, it’s unusual how we use that phrase in golf. Bounce again from what? Not successful?
Tiger Woods, essentially the most prolific winner the sport has seen, nonetheless solely gained round 20 % of his begins. This can be a sport the place you lose way more usually than you win. So when pundits speak about slumps and struggles after a single match, I can’t assist however shake my head. Golf doesn’t work that method.
Rory’s win takes a weight off his shoulders. He’s now not chasing that elusive ultimate main. That psychological freedom may open the door to much more success. He’s nonetheless in his prime, nonetheless chasing greatness, and now enjoying with nothing left to show.
And whereas Rory’s triumph is the headline, I additionally wish to tip my cap to Justin Rose. At 44, he continues to grind, compete, and put himself within the combine on the recreation’s largest occasions. That sort of longevity and drive deserves recognition.
The 2025 Masters gave us historical past. It gave us drama. And most of all, it gave us hope that the sport’s largest stars nonetheless have lots extra chapters to jot down.
Up subsequent on the calendar is among the most unusual occasions on the PGA Tour, the Zurich Basic of New Orleans. It runs from April 24 by way of 27 at TPC Louisiana, and yearly it brings one thing contemporary to the spring schedule.
This match stands out as a result of it’s an official staff occasion on the PGA Tour. Gamers compete in pairs, with the primary and third rounds performed as four-ball (finest ball) and the second and ultimate rounds as alternate shot. That blend retains issues unpredictable and calls for actual chemistry between companions. It’s quick, aggressive, and simply flat-out enjoyable to look at.
Rory McIlroy might be again within the discipline, pairing once more with Shane Lowry. The 2 of them gained it final 12 months, they usually work nicely collectively. After Rory’s massive win at Augusta, all eyes might be on how he carries that momentum into a totally completely different model of play. It’s an ideal likelihood to see how versatile his recreation actually is.
However what I actually admire in regards to the Zurich Basic is its impression off the course. By the Fore!Children Basis, the match has raised greater than 45 million {dollars} since 1958, supporting healthcare, schooling, and important providers for over 200,000 kids annually. That sort of long-term dedication speaks volumes about what this occasion means to the local people. It’s not only a cease on the PGA Tour. It’s a pressure for good.
For followers, this week brings one thing particular. There’s high-level play, actual teamwork, and a deep sense of function behind all of it.
Brendon is Class A PGA Skilled and based Little Linksters, LLC, and its nonprofit arm, the Little Linksters Affiliation for Junior Golf Growth. He gained 25+ prestigious business honors, together with the 2017 PGA Nationwide Youth Participant Growth Award. He graduated from the PGA of America Administration Program and has a handicap index of seven.8.
He has performed golf for over 40 years and at present performs twice a month on the Eagle Dunes Golf Membership close to Sorrento, Florida. He loves Srixon golf equipment and performs a ZX5 driver with Z 585 irons. He is written over 60 articles on GolfSpan and makes a speciality of sharing ideas to enhance your golf recreation. You’ll be able to join with Brendon at LinkedIn, X, IG, FB, his web site, or BrendonElliott@pga.com.
