Rory McIlroy is out to enjoy the experience of the Masters as he prepares for his title defence at Augusta.

McIlroy ended his long wait for a maiden triumph at Augusta last year, winning his fifth major in dramatic fashion.

The Northern Irishman edged out Justin Rose in a play-off.

A week ahead of returning to the course where he completed the career slam, McIlroy is focused purely on having fun.

"This is going to be the first time I drive down Magnolia Lane and it's all going to be about enjoying my week," he told reporters, as quoted by ESPN.

"You know, enjoying the perks that come along with being a Masters champion: having a parking space in the champions car park to using the champions locker room, hosting the dinner on Tuesday night."

The 90th Masters Tournament approaches. #themasters pic.twitter.com/09d8IvbEal

— The Masters (@TheMasters) March 29, 2026

Only three players – Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods and Nick Faldo – have won the Masters back-to-back.

"I've won it once, and I feel like that will make it a bit easier for me to win again," McIlroy said.

"I don't think there was any round of golf that I'd played before that can compare to the feelings and the emotions I went through that Sunday."

McIlroy's best finish since the turn of the year was T2 at the Genesis Invitational in February. He placed a shot back from champion Jacob Bridgeman.