• Paolo Uggetti

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. — It almost seemed unfair to give Rory McIlroy an extra 15 hours to strategize the precise shots needed for victory.

Once the Players Championship shifted to a three-hole aggregate Monday playoff due to Sunday’s weather delay, McIlroy held a distinct advantage over J.J. Spaun. Yet, as winds intensified on the 16th hole, McIlroy admitted to feeling a level of nervousness he hadn’t experienced in a while. Reflecting on Sunday, he regretted not securing the win then, and now the pressure was undeniably on him.

The high stakes led to a restless night; he awoke at 3 a.m., unable to fall back asleep. The situation created a ‘stressful’ morning; arriving at the course by 6:15, he adhered to his usual workout and warmup routine, as if facing a full 18 holes, seeking a semblance of normalcy.

‘I was as nervous as I can remember,’ McIlroy confessed.

However, as he stood at the tee, McIlroy relied on his established strengths, a product of his game’s evolution for such moments. He chose his driver, launching the ball over the left trees, 334 yards down the fairway. Following up with a pitching wedge into a par-5, he secured a birdie. Game on. Spaun made par. With two holes remaining, the contest was effectively decided.

‘I definitely didn’t have my A-game this week,’ McIlroy admitted. ‘Yet, I still managed to win one of the most significant tournaments globally. That’s massive.’

The victory underscored McIlroy’s prowess, highlighting his enduring career and mature approach. At 35, with 18 years as a pro, McIlroy maintains the raw power to dominate courses. Now, he also possesses the necessary subtlety to adapt, recover, compete, and triumph even when not at his peak. This week, he uncharacteristically missed 30 out of 58 fairways. It proved inconsequential. His putting, short game, and approach shots rose to the occasion.

‘I believe I’m a more complete player now,’ McIlroy stated. ‘I feel prepared to perform in any condition, regardless of challenges.’

Following Scottie Scheffler’s dominant year in the sport with nine victories and a major championship, establishing himself as the undisputed world number one, McIlroy is making a strong comeback. In four events this season, the world No. 2 has already claimed two signature event wins—one here and one at Pebble Beach—both achieved through comebacks.

Beyond the results, the underlying process during these tournaments demonstrates tangible growth. After offseason swing adjustments, McIlroy exhibits greater command over his ball and overall game. Even when frustration arises, his player development allows for patience. As seen on the 16th tee on Monday, McIlroy can hit towering shots. Evidenced by his crucial eagle on Sunday’s second hole, he can also drive it low. When facing strong winds and pressure, McIlroy can depend on his varied shots and precision.

Approaching the island green 17th tee on Monday, at 130 yards into the wind, he knew precisely the shot required. He had practiced it on the range, simulating the expected wind. McIlroy described it as a ‘three-quarter, three-quarter 9-iron’ aimed for 147 yards, which performed exactly as intended. ‘Thinking back to 2009 when I first encountered this course, it was far from love at first sight,’ he reflected. ‘I’ve had to learn how to play this course, adapting my game accordingly. Winning here for a second time is incredible.’

Despite the divisions between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour potentially diluting some PGA Tour events in recent years, the Players Championship retains its prestige, which McIlroy felt as he lifted the golden trophy once more.

This tournament consistently produces outstanding champions; the course demands elite performances. Six years after his initial victory here, McIlroy’s second win places him in select company, joining only three other players with multiple Players and major titles (Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Scheffler).

Scheffler’s influence on McIlroy’s form is undeniable. His excellence has spurred McIlroy to deepen his resolve to stay at the top. This motivation led to offseason swing changes, sustained hard work, and prevented any decline in his performance.

‘Witnessing Scottie’s achievements… it’s inspired us all to strive for improvement,’ McIlroy acknowledged. ‘I know I must elevate my game to compete with him.’

As April nears, attention naturally shifts to Augusta, where Scheffler will defend his green jacket, and the broader implications for McIlroy. The major championship drought extends into its 11th year, bringing increased scrutiny, pressure, and questions. However, as demonstrated this week, McIlroy’s confidence in winning major events is stronger than ever, despite recent major heartbreaks.

‘I don’t feel like I’m making the same critical errors as before in crucial moments. Learning from those past mistakes has been key,’ McIlroy explained. ‘It’s a marathon career. Patience is crucial. Those losses have taught me how to handle similar situations in the future.’

McIlroy’s victory this week is significant. After years in the sport, he understands that his career is often judged by major wins, yet golf is a game of fine margins where the difference between victory and just another paycheck is minimal. He is acutely aware of this reality, and his two wins this season serve as proof—to himself and the golfing world—of his hard work and current top-tier performance.