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—nothing. While this behavior puzzled fans and DeChambeau alike, McIlroy has now revealed it was part of a deliberate mental strategy.
Heading into the final round with a two-shot lead, McIlroy faced immense pressure. A victory would not only mark his first Major win since 2014 but also complete the career Grand Slam. Knowing he’d be up against a fan favorite who had beaten him at the previous year’s U.S. Open, McIlroy turned to renowned sports psychologist Bob Rotella for advice.
Bob Rotella’s advice: total focus, total silence
Although confident in his game, McIlroy was concerned about the dynamic with DeChambeau and the crowd support his opponent would receive. Rotella’s advice was clear: block DeChambeau out completely. No talking, no looking, no reacting. McIlroy was to stay in his own mental space and communicate only with his caddie, Harry Diamond. The goal: a tunnel vision focus on his own performance.
Early struggles, key birdies, and mental resilience
The plan was tested early. McIlroy lost his lead and briefly fell behind. But in a crucial stretch, he made key birdies while DeChambeau bogeyed, swinging the momentum. McIlroy later said this phase was likely decisive. Once he managed to control his emotions and stop worrying about DeChambeau’s decisions, his focus sharpened. “From that point on, the only thing in my way was me,” he reflected.
Staying present and composed became the biggest challenge. Though DeChambeau faded, McIlroy still had to hold his nerve in a playoff against Justin Rose, which he did with poise to secure the Green Jacket.
DeChambeau, meanwhile, was clearly unsettled by McIlroy’s silence, commenting after the 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 playing 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