Rory McIlroy will defend his Pebble Beach Pro-Am title in his first PGA Tour start of the 2026 season.
The Northern Irishman has only played in two events so far this year, the Dubai Invitational and the Dubai Desert Classic on the DP World Tour.
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His victory at Pebble Beach kickstarted his amazing 2025, so he will be hoping for a similar performance this week.
McIlroy appears to be in great form heading into the Signature Event after making an incredible eagle in a practice round on Tuesday.
Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Rory McIlroy makes incredible eagle on 18th hole at Pebble Beach
The 18th at Pebble Beach Golf Links is one of the most iconic final holes in the world.
The 543-yard par-5 requires players to drive the ball over the coastline of the Pacific Ocean.
With a good tee shot, the top professionals can then go for the green with an approach shot of around 200 yards.
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This is exactly what Rory McIlroy did in his practice round on Tuesday, despite strong winds coming in from the ocean.
McIlroy then made his eagle putt from around 30 feet and his reaction suggested that he knew it was special.
Rory McIlroy among the favorites to win the Pebble Beach Pro-Am
As the defending champion and the second-best player in the world rankings, Rory McIlroy is among the favorites to win the Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
His eagle on the 18th hole, albeit a small sample size, suggests that he feels confident with his game.
The Masters winner may also benefit from an ideal playing partner, Ryan Fox, who, like McIlroy, enjoys playing quickly and getting into a rhythm on the golf course.
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The only concern for the 36-year-old heading into this event would be his underwhelming performance in Dubai three weeks ago.
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