After a night when members at Holywood Golf Club endured an emotional rollercoaster like no other, the clubhouse erupted as the local hero sank his birdie putt at the first play-off hole at Augusta National to finally capture a long sought green jacket and enter golfing immortality as a winner of the career grand slam of major titles.
There were tears and cheers as club stalwarts embraced, while junior members who dream of emulating their hometown champion chanted his name.
The celebrations were a marked contrast to the sombre mood inside the club earlier in the night during the agonising moments of McIlroy’s final round when he looked to have blown his chances of glory.
he game of golf in Northern Ireland – it’s just fantastic.”
9.
AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 13: (L-R) Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland shakes hands with Justin Rose of England after the first playoff hole during the final round of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 13, 2025 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) Photo: Harry How
10.
Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, with his wife Erica Stoll, and daughter Poppy, holds the trophy after winning the Masters golf tournament, Sunday, April 13, 2025, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) Photo: David J. Phillip
11.
Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, with his wife Erica Stoll, kisses daughter Poppy after putting on the green Jacket after winning the Masters golf tournament, Sunday, April 13, 2025, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis) Photo: Ashley Landis
12.
Holywood Golf Club before Rory McIlroy - President Tony Denvir at Holywood Golf Club today before Rory McIlroy Tees off at the Masters in Augusta. Photo - Andrew McCarroll/ Pacemaker Press Photo: Andrew McCarroll