Rory McIlroy kicked off 2024 with a stellar victory at Pebble Beach, setting the stage for what golf fans hope will be a triumphant year for the Northern Irish golfer. Known for his prodigious talent and occasional struggles to clinch the Masters, McIlroy's win has reignited excitement as the major season looms.
This marks the third consecutive year McIlroy has tasted victory so early into the golfing calendar, having previously secured titles in Dubai in both 2023 and 2024. His mantra, 'Start as you mean to go on,' shared with his caddie Harry Diamond approaching their win, encapsulates his focused mindset as he aims to end his 11-year major drought.
McIlroy's strategic prowess was on full display at Pebble Beach. In challenging windy conditions, he managed a flawless 65, avoiding bogeys and showcasing discipline that has sometimes eluded him. Instead of resorting to aggressive play, McIlroy opted for a conservative approach on shorter par 4s, preferring precision over power—a decision that paid off handsomely.
The golfer attributes part of his strategic evolution to observing fellow player Scottie Scheffler, noted for his clean, near-error-free rounds. “Scheffler doesn't make mistakes. He plays the right shot at the right time,