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 silence. What seemed odd at the time, even to DeChambeau himself, was actually a deliberate mental strategy, as McIlroy recently revealed in a podcast.
Heading into the final round with a two-shot lead, McIlroy faced immense pressure. Not only was he chasing his first Major win since 2014, but also the elusive career Grand Slam. Complicating matters was the fact that he was paired with DeChambeau, a fan favorite who had defeated him at the previous year’s U.S. Open.
Bob Rotella’s advice shaped McIlroy’s approach
Feeling physically ready but mentally uneasy, McIlroy turned to renowned sports psychologist Bob Rotella. Aware of the crowd’s support for DeChambeau and their contrasting playing styles, McIlroy sought guidance. Rotella’s advice was clear: block DeChambeau out completely. No talking, no looking, no reacting. McIlroy was to stay in his own world, focused solely on his caddie Harry Diamond and the task at hand.
Early struggles, key birdies
The plan 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 reflected that this phase was likely the turning point. Once he managed to suppress his concerns about DeChambeau, his focus sharpened. \”From that point on, I was the only thing in my way,\” he said. The biggest challenge was staying present and composed—his toughest opponent was himself.
Though DeChambeau didn’t prevail, McIlroy still had to hold his nerve in a playoff against Justin Rose, which he did with poise. DeChambeau, meanwhile, was visibly puzzled by McIlroy’s silence: \”He didn’t say a word to me today,\” he remarked after the round.
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 competing 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