Rory McIlroy has revealed that weeks of preparation at Augusta National, which he described as his ‘home course’, were instrumental in his successful defence of the Masters title. The Northern Irishman, who now has six major titles, adopted a strategy inspired by Jack Nicklaus, spending extended time at the course rather than competing in PGA Tour events.
McIlroy, who overcame a back injury and limited competitive play, focused on simulating tournament conditions. He played multiple rounds with a single ball, including a front nine of 29. “I felt prepared that wherever I hit it on the golf course, I sort of know what to do,” he said.
Nicklaus’s advice to simulate a tournament the week before helped McIlroy feel ‘second nature’ during the event. He plans to use a similar approach for the remaining 2026 majors at Aronimink, Shinnecock Hills and Royal Birkdale.
McIlroy acknowledged the relief of completing the career grand slam in 2025, adding: “Everything is icing on the cake.” Runner-up Scottie Scheffler questioned the course setup, noting softer Friday conditions that aided McIlroy’s six birdies in the closing seven holes.
