Rory McIlroy has disclosed that he is managing a troubling elbow issue just days before he sets his sights on a long-awaited Masters triumph.
Fitness Woes Loom as McIlroy Eyes Augusta Glory
The Northern Irish golfer, who concluded the Houston Open with an impressive final-round score of 64, securing a top-five finish, is heading to Augusta National with mixed fortunes.
While his performance on the PGA Tour in early 2025 has been formidable—securing two victories—an elbow concern has raised questions about his fitness ahead of the season’s first major.
McIlroy, 35, revealed the issue following his finish in Texas, “My right elbow has been bothering me a little bit so I’ll maybe just get some treatment on that and make sure that is OK going into Augusta,” McIlroy said to the Golf Channel.
“I’ve got my coach Michael Bannon coming in tomorrow [Monday], we’ll do some work and make sure everything is in good shape for a week’s time,” he added.
Despite this minor setback, McIlroy remains focused on the task ahead: securing the elusive green jacket and completing the career grand slam. A Masters victory would not only cap off an already decorated career but also end an 11-year wait for a fifth major title.
Who is Rory McIlroy?
McIlroy is one of the most recognisable figures in modern golf, known for his powerful swing, pinpoint accuracy, and fierce competitiveness. A former world number one, he has consistently challenged for major titles and remains a fan favourite due to his candid nature and dedication to the sport.
- Born: 4 May 1989, Holywood, County Down, Northern Ireland
- Turned Professional: 2007
- Professional Wins: 36 (as of March 2025)
- Major Wins: 4 (U.S. Open 2011, PGA Championship 2012 & 2014, The Open Championship 2014)
- World No.1 Rankings: Multiple stints since 2012
- Career Grand Slam Quest: Only the Masters remains
Masters Hopes and Competitive Field
The upcoming 2025 Masters Tournament is set to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Among McIlroy’s key rivals is Scottie Scheffler, who continues to impress after bouncing back from his own injury challenges.
Scheffler, the reigning Masters champion, finished strongly at the Houston Open alongside Gary Woodland, though it was Min Woo Lee who claimed his first PGA Tour victory in Texas, fending off both contenders in a dramatic conclusion.
As anticipation builds for Augusta, McIlroy’s focus will be on ensuring his elbow receives proper care while maintaining the strong form that has defined his early 2025 campaign.
