Rory McIlroy shared the unusual mental strategy that helped him win the Masters and complete the career Grand Slam.
During the final round of the Masters, Rory McIlroy noticeably avoided any interaction with his playing partner Bryson DeChambeau. No words, no eye contact, no acknowledgment. What seemed odd to many, including DeChambeau himself, was actually a calculated mental tactic, 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 Major title on the line, but also the elusive career Grand Slam. Complicating matters was the fact that he was paired with DeChambeau, a fan favorite who had beaten him at the U.S. Open the previous year.
Bob Rotella’s advice shaped McIlroy’s approach
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 the toughest matchup because of how differently we approach the game,” he said.
Rotella’s advice was clear: block DeChambeau out completely. No talking, no looking, no reacting. McIlroy was to enter a mental tunnel, focusing solely on his own performance and communicating only with his caddie, Harry Diamond.
Early struggles, key birdies
The strategy was tested early. McIlroy lost his lead and briefly fell behind. But in a pivotal stretch, he made crucial birdies while DeChambeau faltered with bogeys. That swing proved decisive.
Reflecting on the round, McIlroy said that once he managed to control his thoughts about DeChambeau, his focus shifted inward. “From that point on, I was the only one in my way,” he explained. The biggest challenge was staying present and composed.
Though DeChambeau didn’t prevail, McIlroy still had to outlast Justin Rose in a playoff, showcasing remarkable nerve under pressure. DeChambeau later admitted he was confused by McIlroy’s silence: “He didn’t say a word to me today.”
Looking back, McIlroy said 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
— The Masters (@TheMasters) April