The note that Nick Faldo gave to Rory McIlroy after he retained his Masters title

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Rory McIlroy became the second European player to retain their Masters title with his second straight win at Augusta National.

He joined Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Englishman Sir Nick Faldo as the only players to ever win two years on the bounce. McIlroy also tied Faldo in major championship victories, further bolstering his claim of being the best European golfer ever.

Faldo, a three-time Masters champion, was on commentary during McIlroy’s win, and as ever sang the Northern Irishman’s praises. And as McIlroy left Butler’s Cabin on his way to the Green Jacket ceremony, Faldo was waiting to give a note from one European great to another.

Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images

The note that Nick Faldo gave to Rory McIlroy

After winning his second Masters, Faldo told BBC Sport what the note read.

Faldo wrote to the 36-year-old: “From Sir Nick Faldo, to Rory, congratulations. From the 1989 and 1990 champ, to the 89th and 90th Masters champ, all the best, Sir Nick.”

It’s a striking coincidence, and something that ties Faldo and McIlroy’s accomplishments together nicely.

McIlroy went on to reflect on what the note meant to him: “Really cool. We had a great time at the Champions Dinner on Tuesday night. The only other European to go back-to-back at this tournament so pretty cool company to keep.”

After winning The Masters, McIlroy and Faldo will have plenty more dinners to reflect on their achievements for years to come.

• READ MORE: Sir Nick Faldo’s immediate reaction after Rory McIlroy wins The Masters for a second time