Recently, Rory McIlroy visited the Augusta National Golf Club with his father, Gerry. And during their time together, the world number two attempted an iconic shot from the 2025 Masters Tournament. 

Claiming it to be a fun experience, the five-time major champion told the media at Bay Hill, “I hit the show on 15 again, just as like just to replicate it.”

“I nearly pitched it in the hole. It was actually a better shot than I hit in the tournament. It was actually unbelievable, I wish I could have got it on camera.”

During the Masters Tournament, McIlroy hit a high curve around a pine tree on the par-5 15th. He hit the ball 208 yards away and landed on the green, just six feet away from the hole, leading to an eagle. 

He hit the ball with a 7-iron that’s on display in the Champions Locker Room at Augusta National Golf Club. Being with his father for the first time following his Masters win was already special. And a better performance at the 15th further enhanced that experience for the McIlroys.

Recreating that instance, McIlroy hit it again with a 7-iron during his recent visit. And he knew that he had gotten stronger this year. 

But did that strength reflect at the Arnold Palmer Invitational?

Is Rory McIlroy Satisfied With His Performance at Bay Hill?

Pleased with his performance in the second round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, McIlroy said, “One bogey. Hit it in the water on 8. But made a good putt for bogey there. I really felt like that kept any momentum that I had for the round going. I played the last 10 holes really, really well. Overall real really pleased.”

Rory McIlroy rose to T9th position after hitting a four-under 68 in the second round. He was patient, controlled, and strong. 

Recalling the previous day’s game, he said, “I wasn't too displeased with how I played yesterday, obviously I just didn't hold it together and score the way I wanted to coming down the last few holes.”

Nevertheless, McIlroy is continuously improving his game. But can his improvement help him win the Arnold Palmer Invitational? 

Read more at Daily Club Golf!

Written by

Krushna Pattnaik

Edited by

Joyita Das