Rory McIlroy becomes first repeat Masters golf champion in 24 years
Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland celebrates after winning the 2026 Masters Tournament on Sunday at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI April 12 (UPI) -- Rory McIlroy watched his historic lead evaporate, but responded with the mettle of a champion to defend his Masters title Sunday in August, Ga. McIlroy, who needed 17 attempts to win his first Masters Tournament last spring, added a second green jacket to his closet less than a year later.
With Sunday's victory, he became just the fourth player to win consecutive Masters crowns, joining Jack Nicklaus (1965-66), Nick Faldo (1989-90) and Tiger Woods (2001-02). "I can't believe I waited 17 years to get one green jacket and then I get two in a row," McIlroy said on the CBS broadcast. "I think all of my perseverance at this golf tournament over the years has really started to pay off.
It was a tough weekend. I did the bulk of my work on Thursday and Friday. "I'm just so happy to hang in there and get the job done.
" Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland hits an approach shot to the green on hole No. 1 during the final round of the 2026 Masters Tournament on Sunday at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga. Photo by John Angelillo/UPI McIlroy, who carded a 12-under for the tournament, took home $4.
5 million for his win. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who finished second at 11-under, cashed in for $2.
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