Masters champion Rory McIlroy back home in Northern Ireland

The Masters champion was spotted getting off a private jet at George Best Belfast City Airport earlier today.

Last Sunday, the Holywood man became only the sixth player to complete a career grand slam of men’s major championships when he won in Augusta.

Speaking moments after winning the coveted green jacket, McIlroy said his parents, Gerry and Rosie, were back in Northern Ireland, but that he was looking forward to celebrating with them.

McIlroy had to fight back tears as he was asked about the sacrifices his parent made during the early part of his career.

“I want to say hello to my mum and dad, they’re back in Northern Ireland and I can’t wait to celebrate this next week with them,” McIlroy added.

Last Sunday, McIlroy had threatened to squander a five-shot lead with eight holes to play before beating Justin Rose with a birdie on the first extra hole at Augusta National.

“It feels incredible. This is my 17th time here and I started to wonder if it would ever be my time,” McIlroy said before being presented with the green jacket by defending champion Scottie Scheffler.

“The last 10 years coming here with the burden of the grand slam on my shoulder and trying to achieve it, I wonder what we’re going to talk about going into next year.

“I’m absolutely honoured, thrilled and proud to be able to call myself a Masters champion.”

McIlroy sank to his knees in sheer relief after holing the winning putt and added: “It was 14 years in the making, from having a four-shot lead (after three rounds) in 2011.

“There was a lot of pent up emotion that came out on the 18th green and a moment like that makes all the years and close calls worth it.”