Rory McIlroy reveals mental strategy behind Masters triumph

12/19/2025 by Golf Post Editors

Rory McIlroy shared the unusual mental tactic he used during the Masters final round to secure his long-awaited victory.

Rory McIlroy reveals mental strategy behind Masters triumph

Rory McIlroy ignored his opponent Bryson DeChambeau during the Masters final round. (Photo: Getty)

Rory McIlroy shared the unusual mental tactic he used during the Masters final round to secure his long-awaited victory.

During the final round at Augusta, many noticed Rory McIlroy completely ignored his playing partner Bryson DeChambeau. No words, no eye contact, no interaction. What puzzled fans and DeChambeau alike was actually part of a calculated mental approach, as McIlroy revealed in a recent podcast.

Heading into the final round with a two-shot lead, McIlroy faced immense pressure—not only was a Masters title on the line, but also the elusive career Grand Slam. Complicating matters further, he was paired with DeChambeau, a fan favorite and the man who had beaten him at the previous year’s U.S. Open.

Advice from Bob Rotella proved crucial

To prepare mentally, McIlroy turned to renowned sports psychologist Bob Rotella. While confident in his game, McIlroy was concerned about the crowd support for DeChambeau and their contrasting playing styles. Rotella’s advice was clear: block DeChambeau out completely. No talking, no looking, no reacting. McIlroy was to stay locked into his own world, communicating only with his caddie Harry Diamond.

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Early struggles, key birdies

The strategy was tested early. McIlroy stumbled out of the gate, losing his lead and briefly falling behind. But in a pivotal stretch, he regained control with crucial birdies, while DeChambeau faltered with bogeys. McIlroy later said this turning point was likely decisive. Once he managed to mentally contain his concerns about DeChambeau, his focus sharpened: \”From that moment on, I was only in my own way,\” he reflected.

Staying present and composed became his greatest challenge. Though DeChambeau faded, McIlroy still had to outlast Justin Rose in a playoff, where he showcased remarkable nerve to finally claim the Green Jacket.

DeChambeau, meanwhile, was visibly confused by McIlroy’s silence, commenting post-round: \”He didn’t say a word to me today.\”

Looking back, McIlroy says he wouldn’t change a thing. In fact, he hopes to feel that same intensity again—because it means he’s once more playing for something truly meaningful.