Augusta: Rory McIlroy is now experiencing increased pressure at home, in addition to the expectations from the outside world. 

His four-year-old daughter, Poppy, is beginning to understand that her father is a well-known figure who wins golf tournaments with ease. 

“Especially after The Players, it was the first time she sort of realized what I did, which was really cool, but also a little scary at the same time,” remarked the four-time major champion, who is once again aiming for a career slam by winning the Masters title this week.

“The day after, she went to school, and a few kids mentioned things to her. When she returned home, she asked, ‘Daddy, are you famous?’ 

“I told her it depends on who you ask. It’s a bit of a double-edged sword. Sometimes, you have to manage expectations.”

McIlroy is no stranger to expectation. Since his notable collapse on the back nine during a Sunday round at the age of 21, his prospects of winning a major title on a course that seems ideally suited to his style of play have been a central topic of discussion during the Masters.

This year is no different, perhaps with even greater intensity. McIlroy has had an impressive start to 2025, securing two victories on the PGA Tour, including The Players, and finishing tied for fifth in the Houston Open the week prior.

He has dismissed the surrounding expectations as unnecessary distractions.

“It’s merely narratives and distractions. My goal is to minimize that noise as much as possible. I must approach this tournament like any other I participate in,” stated the world No. 2 from Northern Ireland.

“I recognize the narratives and the surrounding noise, and I am aware of the significant anticipation that builds up each year leading to this tournament. However, my focus needs to remain on my responsibilities and keep my head down.

“Throughout my career, I have demonstrated considerable resilience in the face of setbacks, and I believe I have done so once more, particularly after June of last year when I lost the US Open to Bryson DeChambeau. The golf I have played since that time is something I take great pride in.

“Setbacks and disappointments are part of the journey, but what matters is learning from them and moving forward, applying those lessons in practice.

“With a lengthy career like mine, you learn to adapt to both the highs and lows, understanding that if you put in the right effort and practice effectively, those disappointments will soon transform into positive experiences again.”

This year, McIlroy has also been collaborating with renowned golf mental coach Bob Rotella.

“We have been discussing the importance of not fixating on results and outcomes; instead, we focus on pursuing a specific feeling while playing golf. When I’m on the course, I consider how I want to feel during my game. If I can prioritize that feeling, I trust that my golf performance will follow suit,” he shared regarding their work together.

Among the changes McIlroy has made this year is his choice of reading material; he is now enjoying fiction, specifically John Grisham’s The Reckoning, rather than engaging with heavy philosophical texts. He has also started watching the period romance drama ‘Bridgerton,’ a show he previously vowed never to watch until his wife Erica encouraged him to give it a chance.

Over the years, McIlroy has shifted his perspectives on various matters, and it appears he has also altered his approach to handling losses.

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