McIlroy: 'I can always draw back on Masters experience'
Rory McIlroy says his dramatic triumph at The Masters has bolstered the belief in his ability to produce the goods under the most intense pressure.
The Northern Irishman finally ended his wait for glory at Augusta National earlier this month, when he pipped Justin Rose to the Green Jacket in a play-off.
McIlroy became only the sixth male golfer to complete a career grand slam, and the first since Tiger Woods in 2000, while taking his major tally to five.
The 35-year-old is set to appear in his first tournament since winning The Masters this week, as he and Shane Lowry defend their Zurich Classic title in New Orleans.
"I'm eager to get back out there," McIlroy said. "This is the perfect atmosphere to do it in. That's part of the reason why I honoured the commitment to be here, because it's a fun event.
"To be out there, with Shane. It's a perfect tournament to come back to, good positive vibes from last year. I don't know if it [The Masters win] gives me more confidence; I've always been very confident of my abilities as a golfer.
Rory has arrived in the Bayou
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 23, 2025
Making his first start since his Masters win, @McIlroyRory will tee it up with @ShaneLowryGolf this week @Zurich_Classic. pic.twitter.com/T8Nj5I0aF2
"I do think the whole day on Sunday at Augusta, I don't think I'll ever have to play a harder round of golf in my life.
"To be able to get through that and produce the shots when I needed to, that obviously gives me confidence, and I can always draw back on that experience."
McIlroy says his victory alongside Lowry in last year's event came at a crucial time for him, and the world number two hopes to continue his positive momentum.
"I could not be in a better place in my life, professionally, personally," McIlroy added. "It's amazing what a year can do.
"This tournament last year was a cool moment for us. It probably injected a bit of joy back into golf for me, which I think is important not to lose that.
"I had a great year last year; this tournament was the catalyst to the good golf I played for the rest of the year."