Rory McIlroy won his fourth major championship back in August 2014 at the PGA Championship in Kentucky, just a few months after turning 25. At that time, it looked like he was on track to follow in the footsteps of golf greats like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus. The tournament wrapped up in a dramatic way, with heavy rain causing delays. McIlroy secured the win with a two-putt as darkness settled in and camera flashes lit up the green. Though it felt a bit rushed, it was still a big win for the young golfer from Northern Ireland. When asked about being compared to Woods and Nicklaus, McIlroy said, “At 25, I didn’t think I’d be here. I’m just taking it one day at a time.” He also mentioned goals of finishing the career grand slam and aiming to become Europe’s best golfer, hoping to surpass legends like Nick Faldo and Seve Ballesteros. McIlroy Sets Sights on Grand Slam.
Just three weeks before the PGA win, McIlroy had taken the Open Championship, and earlier, he’d won the WGC event at Firestone making it three wins in a row, two of which were majors. Everyone was excited about his future. But after Valhalla, things took a turn, leading to a long wait for another major win. By the time the 2015 Masters rolled around, the media had shifted its focus solely to McIlroy’s quest for that elusive career grand slam. Outside the interview room in Augusta, he looked worn out. He was tired of the constant question: When will you win the Masters? McIlroy Sets Sights on Grand Slam.
Over the next decade, McIlroy bagged three FedEx Cup titles, a Players Championship, and 23 additional wins. Yet, he couldn’t capture another major in 39 tries until early 2025. After winning the Masters and finally achieving the career grand slam, McIlroy felt a huge weight lift off his shoulders. At 35, he greeted reporters with a cheeky remark: “What are we all going to talk about next year?” It was a playful nod to all the grand slam questions he had faced over the years. McIlroy Sets Sights on Grand Slam.
Now, McIlroy is focused on proving he’s the best male golfer in Europe. With legends like Faldo and Seve in his sights, and feeling lighter after his recent success, the next few years could shape his legacy. He also has a big team goal ahead leading Europe to a Ryder Cup win in New York, which hasn’t happened since 2012. On top of that, he has a bold dream of winning all four majors in one year. It’s a tough feat, but 2025 could be his chance. The PGA Championship is coming up at Quail Hollow, where he’s won four times before. Then he’ll head to the US Open at Oakmont, where he’s improved a lot with six straight top-10 finishes. The Open will be at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, a place close to his heart where he once held the course record when he was just 16. While others like Jordan Spieth and Tiger Woods have had their moments, McIlroy’s recent success—three wins already in 2025 shows that his current goals are within reach. Having finally achieved his long-awaited dream, McIlroy is now aiming even higher in his career.
