Chants of “RO-RY! RO-RY!” rang out around the putting green where McIlroy stood, flanked by his family, his caddie, 2024 champion Scottie Scheffler, and an array of green jackets. A few patrons waved their caps, Ryder Cup Euro-style; one hoarse guy tried to get a “GRAAAAND … SLAM!” chant going, but he was alone.

McIlroy made too many blunders to win and hit too many brilliant shots to lose. But through skill, luck and pure emotion, he finally won his Masters to finish the career Grand Slam.