Well Played
Masters 2025: Rory McIlroy started his winning press conference by asking this funny question
Throngs of reporters gathered for Rory McIlroy's press conference in Augusta National's media center on Sunday night at the Masters, but it was the winning golfer who got off the first question. And it was almost as good as any of the shots he hit during a memorable final round.
McIlroy, of course, hadn't won a major in more than a decade. And he had never won the Masters—a plot that gained momentum through the years after losing a four-shot lead on the back nine way back in 2011. This tournament seemed destined to be the first major victory of his life that year, but instead, he's been trying to make it his last and complete the career Grand Slam since 2014.
As a result, even when Tiger Woods has teed it up at Augusta National since, McIlroy's quest for golf immortality has usually been the top story line entering this week every April. And he has dealt with countless questions about it from the media during that time. So with him finally wearing the green jacket for the first time, McIlroy took the opportunity to ask a funny—and fair!–question to those covering him.
"I'd like to start this press conference with a question myself," McIlroy said. "What are we all going to talk about next year?"
Well played, Rory. Have a look at how it went down:
It seems almost everyone wanted McIlroy to win. Even golf writers, who aren't supposed to root for players, but certainly root for the best stories. But while this was certainly the best story, it's been written now. Asking about anything else going forward—from McIlroy's choice in books to his opinions of children's movies—seems trivial now.
But don't worry, Rory. We'll think of new ways to pester you. In the meantime, congrats on your new coat. And enjoy not having to answer any "When will you win the career Grand Slam?" questions ever again. Although, you should be prepared to answer some questions about pulling off the calendar Grand Slam at next month's PGA Championship.