Justin Rose Deserves Major, McIlroy Says

Rory McIlroy underlined Justin Rose’s strong Masters showing, saying many fans hope Rose wins another major after a near-miss at Augusta National. McIlroy finished at 12-under to retain the green jacket, while Rose closed at 10-under and shared third after leading by two shots on Sunday.

McIlroy’s latest success made history at Augusta National. The Northern Irishman became the first defending champion at the Masters for 24 years, and only the fourth player ever to win back-to-back titles, joining Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Nick Faldo in that select group.

Rose briefly controlled the final round when moving two clear, yet consecutive bogeys halted that push. The English player, whose sole major victory came at the 2013 US Open, has now reached the top three at majors seven times since 2013, and placed inside the top ten on 17 occasions.

The 45-year-old’s consistency impressed McIlroy, who feels Rose merits another big win. McIlroy said: "What he [Rose] is doing at his age is incredible and I think everyone would love to see him get another major, because I think he deserves it," McIlroytold Sky Sports. "What Rose is doing is sort of the blueprint for me. I feel like I can look at him and see myself competing at the highest level when I'm that age, as well."

McIlroy explained that detailed planning and recovery work shaped this Masters defence. During a three-week spell away from PGA Tour competition because of injury concerns, McIlroy made several trips to Augusta National, using the break to test the course and settle on a clear strategy for the event.

Describing that build-up, McIlroy said: "I took three weeks into this event to make sure that my body was right, to make sure my preparation was right," McIlroy added. "I'm not going to do that for every major, because I'm not able to, but I think I felt the most prepared coming into this event than I ever had. I played the golf course so much and I had such a comfortable feeling going here. Honestly, over the last few weeks, it has felt like my home golf course because I've been here so much. I think to see that preparation payoff is amazing."

McIlroy’s repeat win, Rose’s sustained form and the detailed preparation behind the title defence added fresh storylines to this Masters. The performance confirmed McIlroy’s status among Augusta specialists, while Rose’s resilience showed there remains strong belief that another major title is still within reach.