Rory McIlroy reveals mental strategy behind Masters triumph

Rory McIlroy shared the unusual mental tactic he used to win the Masters, including ignoring Bryson DeChambeau.

During the final round of the Masters, many noticed Rory McIlroy’s complete lack of interaction with his playing partner Bryson DeChambeau. No words, no eye contact—just focus. What puzzled fans and DeChambeau alike was actually a deliberate mental strategy, as McIlroy recently revealed on a podcast.

Heading into the final round with a two-shot lead, McIlroy faced immense pressure. Not only was he pursuing his first major title since 2014, but also the elusive career Grand Slam. Adding to the challenge was the fact that DeChambeau had beaten him at the U.S. Open the previous year and was a fan favorite.

Bob Rotella’s advice shaped McIlroy’s game plan

To prepare mentally, McIlroy consulted renowned sports psychologist Bob Rotella. Though confident in his game, McIlroy was concerned about the dynamics of playing alongside DeChambeau. “I felt it would be toughest to go up against Bryson and the way we approach the game so differently,” he said.

Rotella’s advice was clear: block DeChambeau out completely. No talking, no looking, no reacting. McIlroy was to stay locked in with his caddie Harry Diamond and immerse himself in his own mental space—a tunnel vision approach focused solely on his goal.

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Early struggles, key birdies

The strategy was tested early. McIlroy stumbled at the start, losing his lead and briefly falling behind. But he regained control with crucial birdies, while DeChambeau faltered with bogeys on the same holes.

Looking back, McIlroy believes that stretch was decisive. He couldn’t understand some of DeChambeau’s choices, but once he managed to suppress his concerns, his focus shifted inward. “From that point on, the only thing in my way was myself,” McIlroy reflected. Staying present and composed became his biggest challenge—and his greatest triumph.

Although DeChambeau didn’t win, McIlroy still had to overcome Justin Rose in a playoff, where he demonstrated remarkable composure to secure the Green Jacket.

DeChambeau later admitted he was confused by McIlroy’s silence: “He didn’t say a single word to me today.”

McIlroy has no regrets. In fact, he hopes to feel that same intensity again someday—because it means he’s once more in contention for something truly meaningful.

Perseverance personified.
Wearing his Green Jacket, Rory McIlroy reflected on his journey to becoming a Masters champion. #themasters pic.twitter.com/E8Lt5yHLhV