McIlroy Prepares for PGA Championship Following Masters Victory

World No. 2 Rory McIlroy approaches the 108th PGA Championship at Aronimink with a distinct mental focus compared to the previous year. McIlroy, 37, secured his second consecutive Masters victory last month, completing a career Grand Slam and ending a decade-long major drought. This marks his sixth major title.

McIlroy stated he reset and decompressed after defending his green jacket. He noted a different feeling entering this tournament compared to last year. He indicated a clear path to pursue additional major championships.

Following his 2023 Masters win, McIlroy struggled at the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, finishing 47th. This represented his lowest major finish since 2021. He attributed this to uncertainty regarding future goals after achieving a significant milestone. He confirmed needing several months to redefine his objectives.

McIlroy took three weeks off after his recent Masters triumph. He returned last week at Quail Hollow, where he holds four career wins. He skipped the Doral tournament to attend a White House State Dinner.

McIlroy performed an early practice round at Aronimink during his time off. He cited a benefit from early course reconnaissance, particularly on unfamiliar courses. He noted a similar strategy in 2011 at Congressional, where he won his first major, the US Open, after an early visit. McIlroy stated that advanced trips generally proved beneficial for him.