Gary Player reacts to Rory McIlroy winning The Masters for a second time and suggests how he felt watching it

Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images

Rory McIlroy emerged victorious at Augusta National for the second year running in dramatic fashion, winning The Masters by one shot.

McIlroy finished his week in Georgia on 12-under, one stroke ahead of his PGA Tour rival Scottie Scheffler in second.

It represents a successful title defence for the Northern Irishman, who claimed the green jacket in 2025 for the first time in his career.

McIlroy defeated Justin Rose in a playoff at Augusta back then, and in the process completed the career grand slam.

Another golfing icon to have achieved that feat is Gary Player, who has now shared his thoughts on McIlroy’s latest success at The Masters.

Gary Player loved seeing Rory McIlroy win The Masters

A three-time champion at The Masters, Player wrote on X: “It gave me tremendous joy watching Rory McIlroy compete at Augusta. “What pleases me greatly, on a personal level, is the dedication he has shown to his fitness throughout his career.

“I have always believed that discipline in the gym translates directly to longevity and performance on the golf course.

“To see a man of similar stature commit himself so fully to strength and conditioning, and then perform at this level year after year, is deeply satisfying.

“Yes, his power off the tee is a tremendous advantage, but make no mistake, he won this championship with his putting.

“That is where tournaments are decided, and Rory rose to the occasion beautifully on the greens when it mattered most.

“It was also wonderful to see Scottie make such a spirited charge, and Justin Rose once again gave himself a real opportunity. That is the beauty of golf, experience and determination can never be underestimated.

“The tournament itself was thrilling, but what touched me most was seeing Rory’s family there supporting him. Moments like that remind us what truly matters.

“And what I admired above all was how much he appreciated the victory. Enthusiasm is one of the great secrets to life and to success.

“Congratulations on back-to-back Masters victories, Rory. I wish you continued health, happiness and many more major championships to come.”

Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images

Keegan Bradley congratulates Masters champion Rory McIlroy

The well-wishes have been flooding in for McIlroy, who will still be busy celebrating his success with his family and friends.

Also messaging The Masters champion was Keegan Bradley, who captained the American Ryder Cup team last year.

He also played at the first major of 2026, finishing in a tie for 21st, after which he wrote on X: “Always a pleasure, Augusta… happy with the effort I had this week and a strong finish on Sunday.

“Congrats Rory McIlroy on back-to-back green jackets!”

It’s a very nice touch from Bradley, who suffered defeat to McIlroy and Team Europe at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black.

While the Northern Irishman is set to lie low for the foreseeable future, the American is already back in action this week.

Bradley is in the field for the RBC Heritage at Harbour Town Golf Links, where he will be joined by the likes of compatriots Scottie Scheffler, Cameron Young and Russell Henley.

Also competing in the latest PGA Tour event of 2026 after taking on The Masters are English duo Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick.

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