Rory McIlroy shared emotional hug with Justin Rose’s wife after Masters win as play-off rival and partner show class
RORY MCILROY shared an emotional hug with Justin Rose’s wife Kate after his momentous Masters win.
The world No2 secured a career grand slam after defeating Rose in a tense play-off at Augusta on Sunday.
McIlroy, 35, burst into tears after sinking his putt to win the Green Jacket, before roaring with delight.
He then made his way to the clubhouse but made several stops along the way to embrace close friends and loved ones.
One of the final people he hugged was Kate Rose, wife of the man he defeated, who reportedly said to McIlroy: “I’m really, really happy for you.”
It came after Kate hugged McIlroy’s wife Erica Stoll immediately after the Northern Irishman sank his winning putt.
The two couples are close with the golfers good friends after years playing on the PGA Tour.
They have also been Ryder Cup team-mates on five occasions, most recently in 2023.
McIlroy and Rose, 44, even shared a dinner together ahead of The Masters on Tuesday and there was a great feeling of mutual respect following their clash.
After beating Rose, McIlroy said: “It’s ironic how these things happen.
BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS
Masters 2025
RORY McILROY finally won the Masters to complete an epic Grand Slam after YEARS of waiting.
The fans’ favourite fell to his knees and roared in celebration after beating Justin Rose in a dramatic play-off.
McIlroy later broke down in an emotional TV interview as he said: “A moment like that makes all the years and all the close calls worth it.”
LATEST FROM AUGUSTA
“We were invited to a dinner by a few members of the club on Tuesday night, and we were the only two players at that table, and we are the ones that end up being in the play-off. It’s funny how these things work.
“Justin is a great champion. And I remember watching the play-off in 2017 when he went up against Sergio [Garcia], and that didn’t quite go his way either.
“But he’s had a phenomenal record around here and I feel for him a little bit because he’s been so close. He’s a good friend and hopefully he has a few more opportunities.”
Rose congratulated his opponent after the play-off, tweeting: “I gave it everything…. Congratulations @McIlroyRory on winning the @TheMasters and completing the Grand Slam.
“Very cool sharing the green with you in that moment.”