During the 2025 Masters, the 44-year-old English golfer showcased a remarkable comeback at the 2025 Masters that almost eclipsed McIlroy's significant victory. 

Starting the final round seven strokes behind, Rose ignited his game on the back nine with six birdies, culminating in a vital 20-foot putt on the final hole, which brought his score to 11-under and led to a sudden-death playoff.

Both golfers launched their drives down the fairway on the initial playoff hole. Rose set up his approach shot to within 15 feet while McIlroy landed his just four feet from the flagstick. Although Rose's birdie attempt looked promising, it veered past low. The opportunity then fell to McIlroy—and he seized it decisively. His four-foot birdie rolled into the cup; euphorically celebrating as he dropped to his knees and threw his putter skyward.

Afterward, Rose embraced McIlroy and said:

“This is such an iconic moment in golf—someone accomplishing a career Grand Slam, and it is truly special to share with him. Although I planned to act contrary today, this is indeed an extraordinary event.”

 After experiencing a loss in a Masters playoff in 2017, Rose achieved an impressive final-round score of 66, which included ten birdies. Although he once again secured second place—similar to his result at last year's Open Championship - his remarkable play demonstrates that he is still very much in the race for major titles.

“It was indescribably wonderful sinking that putt on 18—the one every kid dreams about,” said Rose. "I truly believe I'm a better player now than I was 10 years ago. I got the job done."

While many might have viewed Rose as deserving of the win, Sunday was wholly McIlroy's—a fact he was well aware of. Their touching embrace at Augusta captured the essence of the moment: one athlete reaching unprecedented heights while the other showcased sportsmanship close to success.

In a video shared by the PGA Tour earlier on Sunday, McIlroy is responding to a question regarding his jacket size. He mentions that he wears a size 38 or 40 short, depending on his weekly eating habits. "I like it a little more European style," McIlroy says in the video. "A little more fitted, a little more tapered and pinched in."