
Rory McIlroy has achieved nearly everything in professional golf, yet three ambitions still drive the Northern Irishman. As the 2025 season kicks off, McIlroy’s sights are set on winning the Masters, securing an away Ryder Cup victory, and, longer term, achieving Olympic glory.
The four-time major champion has built an illustrious career since turning pro in 2007. With over 40 professional victories, including 26 PGA Tour titles, McIlroy has been a consistent force in golf. However, the missing Green Jacket looms large, and he admits it is his top priority this season.
“Winning the Masters, an Olympic medal, and another away Ryder Cup—these are my three goals for the rest of my career,” McIlroy told BBC Sport.
Augusta: The Unfinished Business
Despite four top-five finishes, the Masters continues to elude McIlroy. His infamous 2011 collapse, where he lost a four-shot lead with a final-round 80, remains a painful memory. Yet, McIlroy believes 2025 could be different.
“Augusta is Augusta. I’ve analyzed my stats and identified areas I can improve, especially around the greens,” he said.
A win at Augusta would complete the career Grand Slam, placing McIlroy among an elite group of golfers.
Quail Hollow: A Happy Hunting Ground
The year’s second major, the US PGA Championship, will be played at Quail Hollow, a venue where McIlroy has excelled. The 35-year-old has four victories at the North Carolina course, including his first PGA Tour title in 2010 and his most recent in 2024.
“I’ve played some of my best golf at Quail Hollow,” McIlroy said confidently.
US Open & Open Championship
McIlroy has grown into a formidable US Open player, finishing in the top nine in the past six editions. This year, the tournament returns to Oakmont, a notoriously challenging course where McIlroy hopes to capitalize on his improved patience and discipline.
The Open Championship returns to Royal Portrush in McIlroy’s native Northern Ireland. After missing the cut in 2019 due to a disastrous opening round, he is eager for redemption.
“I feel like I’m learning how to handle the expectations of playing at home. Portrush in 2025 will be different,” McIlroy said.
Ryder Cup: Chasing an Away Victory
In September, McIlroy will aim for his second away Ryder Cup win as Europe faces the USA at Bethpage in New York.
“Winning an away Ryder Cup is one of the greatest achievements in golf,” McIlroy said. “It’s a huge task against a strong American team and a partisan crowd, but we relish the challenge.”
Whisper It: 2025 Could Be the Year
With his game in top form and a focused approach, McIlroy has the opportunity to achieve his career-defining goals. A Masters title, an Open triumph on home soil, and Ryder Cup glory would cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
Will 2025 be the year Rory McIlroy finally checks off his ultimate ambitions?
What do you think? Can Rory McIlroy achieve his goals in 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below!