Rory McIlroy Secures Emotional First Win of 2016

Rory McIlroy was visibly moved after winning the Irish Open yesterday, securing his first victory of 2016 during his home tournament at the K Club in Co. Kildare.

The Nike Golf player dazzled during the final holes of Sunday’s round. Coming from 1-stroke behind Scotland’s Russell Knox with 3 holes to play, McIlroy’s form turned golden as he birdied the 16th and eagled the 18th to card a final round 69 and finish three strokes ahead of his nearest competition.

It was an emotional end for the 27-year-old who has failed to make the cut at the tournament for the three previous years. For the second year McIlroy’s own foundation was hosting the Irish Open making it an even bigger deal for the four-time major winner.

“I don’t usually get emotional about golf or about wins, but this one, it means just a little bit more, because it’s not just for myself. It’s for a lot of other people, so it’s a day I'll not forget for a while,” McIlroy told reporters afterwards.

Adding, “To win the Irish Open, to win your national Open, you don’t get many opportunities to do it. I knew I needed to take this chance and I’m just glad I came up with the right shots at the right time. Those shots at 16 and 18 are right up there as among my career best.”

McIlroy’s latest victory earned him a £515,000 paycheque, which the Nike player has decided to give back to his own foundation.

“We’ve already raised over €500,000 going into today for the three chosen charities, and then all the winnings go towards that as well, so we’ve broken the €1m mark this week, which is absolutely incredible,” said McIlroy.

The World Number 3 is now hoping his latest win will translate into a great golf summer, which includes the remaining three majors, the Olympics and the Ryder Cup.

“I’m excited. I kept telling anyone that would listen that I was close.  Maybe those last three holes will be the catalyst for another great summer with three majors and everything else we have to play for with the Olympics and the Ryder Cup.”

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