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Kendall is a Newsweek contributor and editor for Newsweek based in Los Angeles. His focus is all things sports with an emphasis on every aspect of professional and amateur golf. Kendall has been with Newsweek since February, 2025 and previously managed SB Nation’s golf content, as well as spending nearly a decade at FOX Sports. He is a graduate of California State University of Northridge. You can get in touch with Kendall by emailing k.capps@newsweek.com
Kendall Capps
Senior Editor – Contributor
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Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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Rory McIlroy has finally done it. McIlroy has won the Masters in one of the most dramatic final rounds at Augusta National Golf Club ever. After sinking the birdie putt in the playoff to defeat Justin Rose, the Northern Irishman fell to his knees in disbelief.
He became just the sixth man ever to complete the career Grand Slam. McIlroy joined Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, and of course, Tiger Woods.
Speaking of Woods, after winning the Green Jacket, the now five-time major champion evoked the legend as a key inspiration.
AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 03: Tiger Woods of the United States and Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland look on from the 11th tee during a practice round prior to the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta…
AUGUSTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 03: Tiger Woods of the United States and Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland look on from the 11th tee during a practice round prior to the 2023 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 03, 2023 in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
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Christian Petersen/Getty Images
While speaking from the grounds at Augusta National, Rory expressed those sentiments.
“This is by far the greatest golf tournament in the world. Watching Tiger Woods do this when I was a kid was my inspiration… My dreams have been made today.”
Reactions from the 35-year-old’s triumph have poured in.
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was among the first to congratulate McIlroy. He is an avid golfer and has the game to back it up.
Phil Mickelson even sent a congratulations to Rory despite their mounting differences.
An hour after finally winning his Green Jacket, Woods himself finally took to social media to express his support and pride in the Northern Irishman.
“Welcome to the club@McIlroyRory,” Woods posted on X. “Completing the grand slam at Augusta is something special. Your determination during this round, and this entire journey has shown through, and now you’re a part of history. Proud of you!”
The message will likely mean as much to the fans as it does McIlroy.
Woods is obviously one of the greatest players in history. McIlroy is easily the best player of his generation. The two have become close friends in recent years, even launching the TGL (Tomorrow Golf League) together earlier in 2025.
Now, they share history in common.
More Golf: 2025 Masters Tournament payout: Rory McIlroy wins $4.2M, Green Jacket
