Rory McIlroy secured his eighth victory at The Players Championship, defeating J.J. Spaun in a thrilling three-hole playoff on Monday. The Irish golfer’s win marked the first time he has won twice going into the Masters, a major that has previously kept him from achieving golf’s most elite group with the career Grand Slam.
McIlroy delivered a strong performance, setting up multiple birdies throughout the tournament. His best drive of the week set up an early knockout against Spaun on the 17th hole, which ultimately led to his victory.
Spaun was stunned by his own missed shot, watching in awe as his 8-iron sailed over the island green at the par-3 17th. The first three-hole playoff in 10 years at The Players was caused by a four-hour rain delay on Sunday.
McIlroy’s momentum carries him into the Masters, where he hopes to finally achieve the career Grand Slam. With his win at The Players and previous victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, McIlroy is gaining confidence in his game. He plans to add one more start in Houston or San Antonio before the major event.
Spaun, on the other hand, secured a runner-up finish worth $2,725,000, moving him to No. 25 in the world ranking and securing a spot at the Masters.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/rory-mcilroy-players-championship-tpc-sawgrass-jj-spaun-b094bd24b98c94344c739ead40f960d3