Rory McIlroy targets major longevity after defending Masters title
Rory McIlroy has become only the fourth player in history to win back-to-back Masters titles after securing a one-shot victory over Scottie Scheffler at Augusta National.
The world number two successfully defended his crown to claim a sixth major championship, matching the British record held by Sir Nick Faldo.
His latest triumph comes exactly a year after he completed the career Grand Slam with a dramatic play-off victory over English veteran Justin Rose.
Targeting long-term success
Rose challenged again during a roller-coaster final round, briefly holding a two-shot lead before finishing tied for third.
Despite the 45-year-old missing out on an elusive second major championship, his Ryder Cup team-mate was heavily impressed by his enduring ability to contend.
“What he is doing at his age is incredible and I think everyone would love to see him get another major, because I think he deserves it,” McIlroy told Sky Sports.
“What Rose is doing is sort of the blueprint for me. I feel like I can look at him and see myself competing at the highest level when I’m that age, as well.”
Augusta becomes a home course
The Northern Irishman took an unconventional three-week break from the PGA Tour to prepare exclusively for the first men’s major of the season.
He made multiple scouting trips to Georgia, frequently completing practice rounds after dropping his daughter off at school.
“I took three weeks into this event to make sure that my body was right, to make sure my preparation was right,” he added.
“I’m not going to do that for every major, because I’m not able to, but I think I felt the most prepared coming into this event than I ever had.”
The 36-year-old admitted the relentless practice schedule paid off perfectly, making the iconic venue feel almost like a home golf course.
