Relaxed Rory McIlroy seeks Masters title defense against 'strongest' field
Rory McIlroy is much more relaxed than he was before earning his first Masters victory last year, but remains motivated for a 2026 title defense.
Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland walks up the fairway on hole No. 8 during a practice round for the 2026 Masters Tournament on Tuesday at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI April 8 (UPI) -- Rory McIlroy said he is much more relaxed than he was before earning his first Masters victory last year, but remains motivated for a 2026 title defense.
McIlroy, who completed a career grand slam by winning a green jacket last April in Augusta, Ga. , will tee off Thursday on his quest to become the fourth golfer in history to win consecutive Masters Tournaments. "For the past 17 years, I just could not wait for the tournament to start," McIlroy told reporters during his pre-tournament news conference.
"This year, I wouldn't care if the tournament never started. That's sort of the difference. "It's completely different.
I feel so much more relaxed. I know I am going to be coming back here for a lot of years. I'm going to enjoy the perks the champions get here.
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