Just weeks removed from a historic victory at Augusta National—securing his first career Masters title and completing the career Grand Slam—Rory McIlroy is back in action this weekend, aiming for a late rally on Sunday to claim the Truist Championship in Philadelphia.
Heading into the final round, McIlroy is tied for sixth place at eight-under through three rounds, trailing his close friend Shane Lowry, who sits atop the leaderboard at 14-under.
Regardless of whether he captures the title, McIlroy is in line for another significant payday and appears to be building momentum ahead of next weekend’s PGA Championship—the second major of the year.
Adding to the buzz, news broke during the tournament that McIlroy may be planning a return to an event outside of the PGA Tour. Rumors suggest the Rory could compete in the 2025 Australian Open for the first time in 11 years. If confirmed, he would be the marquee attraction at Royal Melbourne in November, helping to reignite interest in the once-prestigious tournament.
According to Golf Digest reporter Evin Priest, “There’s no confirmation, but rumors are swirling that Rory McIlroy will make a competitive return to the Australian Open, and speculation is rife that Royal Melbourne is the frontrunner to host a star-studded tournament.”
🚨🇦🇺⛳️ #REPORT — Rory McIlroy’s camp is rumored to be in early discussions for the reigning Masters Champ to tee it up at The Australian Open at Royal Melbourne later this year. If it comes to fruition it would be Rory’s first time playing it in 11 years. (Via @EvinPriest) pic.twitter.com/Rm8vc8J9NQ
— NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) May 11, 2025
Currently ranked No. 2 in the world, Rory McIlroy, at age 36, is playing some of the most consistent and impressive golf of his career. With plenty of PGA Tour season still ahead, he has a real opportunity to gain ground—and possibly dethrone Scottie Scheffler as the world’s top-ranked player.
For Golf Australia to secure McIlroy’s appearance at the tournament, it would likely require a multi-million dollar deal. However, the Irish star has made his admiration for the event clear in the past, once stating that the Australian Open should “almost be the fifth major.”
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