Overview
- McIlroy, who edged Scottie Scheffler by one shot Sunday, became only the fourth golfer to win back-to-back Masters titles.
- He said Augusta felt like his home course and noted he had not played anywhere else for two to three weeks leading into the tournament.
- Critics argued he gained an edge by practicing at Augusta as a past champion, though the club lets qualified players book limited pre‑tournament rounds.
- Golf analyst Brandel Chamblee defended him, saying any qualifier could have gone early for as many practice rounds as they wished and that his skill made the difference.
- He closed the week with an emotional thanks to his wife, daughter, and parents, as online chatter fixated on a scrutinized greenside embrace and a viral photo of his mother’s handbag honoring his first win.