Rory McIlroy has done it again. Just weeks after winning THE PLAYERS and the Masters, the Northern Irishman captured the Amgen Irish Open in thrilling fashion at the Centurion Club. 2025 is quickly shaping up to be one of the most memorable years of his career — a season full of defining shots, dramatic playoffs, and moments that will live long in golfing history.
Speaking after the playoff victory, McIlroy was reflective, energized, and grateful to have lifted a trophy he’s dreamed of since childhood.
On Winning the Irish Open
Rory, PLAYERS, Masters, and now the Irish Open. Is 2025 the best year of your career?
Rory McIlroy: “Yeah, it is. I said it on the green — 2025 is going to go down as one of the best years of my career, if not the best. The crowds, the atmosphere all week, especially over the weekend, were incredible. To win the Irish Open in front of home fans is something I’ll remember forever.”
The Clutch Eagle at the 72nd Hole
You needed an eagle at the 72nd hole just to force a playoff. Walk us through your thought process.
Rory McIlroy: “I had 202 yards downwind. We talked about club selection — 8-iron felt right with adrenaline. I caught it a little skinny, but it got there. The putt was one of those you dream of: uphill, right-to-left. I just told myself, don’t leave it short, give it a chance. Seeing it drop dead center was special.”
Momentum Ahead of the Ryder Cup
How much does this win mean just before the Ryder Cup?
Rory McIlroy: “I said I didn’t need a win going into the Ryder Cup, but it definitely validates the work I’ve been doing. My game feels sharp — tee to green I’ve been solid. Being in contention under pressure this week was the perfect test. Now I’ve got time to sharpen the tools for Bethpage.”
On Putting and Working with Brad Faxon
Your putting has been a standout this season. What’s changed?
Rory McIlroy: “Statistically it’s my best year ever with the putter. I finished top five in strokes gained putting on the PGA Tour. Working with Brad Faxon has been huge. We keep it simple — sometimes we don’t even hit putts, just talk mindset and routine. That second putt in the playoff today, a little four-footer, was one of the best strokes I’ve made all season.”
Handling Playoffs with Confidence
You’ve now won your last six playoffs. What’s your mindset?
Rory McIlroy: “Playoffs in golf are like tie-breaks in tennis — it’s about who blinks first. Early in my career, I lost a few. But I’ve learned patience and strategy. At 18 today, we both played safe the first two times. Joakim got aggressive the third time and hit it in the water. For me, it’s about holding serve, staying steady. That’s what wins playoffs.”
Ranking the Eagle Putt Among Career Highlights
Where does that moment on 18 rank in your career achievements?
Rory McIlroy: “It’s right up there. Having the putt on the last green to do something big — and doing it — is the stuff we dream about. The grandstands, the crowd spilling onto the fairway… it was incredible. That moment will stay with me forever.”
Looking at Leaderboards and Pressure Situations
Were you watching the leaderboard throughout the round?
Rory McIlroy: “Not early on. I try not to because it influences how I play. Around 12 I saw I was tied for the lead, so I knew I had to lock in. The sand save on 12 was huge. From there, I stayed focused on each shot, not the scores. That’s the key in big moments.”
Building an “Inevitable” Aura
Some say Scottie Scheffler looks inevitable. Do you feel that way right now?
Rory McIlroy: “I think the more you put yourself in these positions, the more comfortable you feel. I’ve played over 400 pro tournaments and been in contention in a good chunk of them. That experience teaches you when to press, when to stay conservative. This year, I’ve found that balance, and it’s paying off.”
Closing Thoughts
From the eagle putt on 18 to his steady playoff composure, Rory McIlroy’s Irish Open victory is another highlight in what is already a career-defining year. With the Ryder Cup at Bethpage around the corner, McIlroy looks not just in form, but in command — a golfer who continues to rise to the moment.
