Career Grand Slam, major titles, Ryder Cup wins—Rory McIlroy has achieved what many dream of. Yet, he still pursues new record-breaking goals.
What Drives Someone Who Has Already Achieved Everything?
Rory McIlroy completed the career Grand Slam last year, a milestone most pros never reach. Having won all four majors at least once, countless titles on the PGA Tour and the DP World Tour, plus Ryder Cup victories, McIlroy’s resume reads like that of a player who has nothing left to prove.
That naturally raises the question: What remains for a player who seemingly has won it all? Does McIlroy still have concrete goals or is he playing merely out of habit?
He answers this himself: Although he knows he could easily end his career with what he has achieved, he constantly finds new incentives. New challenges, new dreams, new goals. And he’s sure that as soon as he checks one off, new ones will automatically arise over time.
Historic Milestone and Unfulfilled Dreams for Rory McIlroy
McIlroy has already named one clear goal deeply rooted in European golf history. He aims to surpass Colin Montgomerie by winning more than Montgomerie’s eight Harry Vardon Trophies. Currently standing at seven season titles, this goal is ambitious but absolutely realistic.
Additionally, classic dreams remain:
An Olympic medal is missing from his collection as is a victory at the Open Championship at St. Andrews, arguably the most emotional stage in golf. The US Open still tempts him as well, especially when played on traditional historic courses like Shinnecock Hills, Winged Foot, Pebble Beach, or Merion, which light up McIlroy’s eyes.
Success as a Process, Not Just a Job
McIlroy speaks remarkably openly about what has kept him at this level over the years. His recipe for success sounds simple but is far from obvious: ‘You have to enjoy the process.’
He doesn’t mean the applause on Sunday or the winner’s interview, but the often invisible hours alone at the range, repeating the same movements, training away from the public eye. That is where the joy must lie.
Today, he even spends more time on the golf course than in traditional training. He enjoys it because it doesn’t feel like work. This also allows him to be selective: he wants to be motivated for every tournament and especially play where he truly wants to.