Rory McIlroy has already completed a momentous Career Grand Slam with victory at the Masters in April, but now has a chance to go back-to-back. Tiger Woods is the only man to ever hold all four majors at the same time, while no one has completed the Grand Slam of all four in one calendar year but the in-form McIlroy will have a chance to go two-for-two at one of his favourite courses.
The Northern Irishman followed his Players Championship victory with a nervy triumph at Augusta. He needed a play-off to get the better of Justin Rose, but that win saw him become just the sixth man to complete the set of all four majors – more than a decade after going back to back in the Open and US PGA.
This year’s US PGA will take place in May, rather than the August date when McIlroy won in 2014. More importantly, though, it will be held at Quail Hollow, where he has an enviable record.
Jordan Spieth jokingly described the course as “Rory McIlroy Country Club,” and there’s a good reason for that. McIlroy got his first ever PGA tour win at Quail Hollow back in 2010, and has enjoyed his returns.
The tournament now known as the Truist Championship has been held at the course, in North Carolina, for more than 20 years. McIlroy won in 2010, 2015, 2021 and 2024, and also lost a play-off against Rickie Fowler in 2012.
Golf Digest has explained just how impressive McIlroy’s record at Quail Hollow is. His average of 69.48 is nearly a full shot better than any other player, and he has 10 top-10 finishes in just 14 appearances.
With the US PGA moving to the course this year, the Truist Championship has needed to find a new venue. It is being played in Pennsylvania, with McIlroy tied for sixth after three rounds.
The 36-year-old went seven under par through the opening two rounds, before posting a one-under 69 in round three. There’s a two-way tie for the lead going into the final round on Sunday, with Shane Lowry joined by Sepp Straka at the top.
Rose, meanwhile, was forced to withdraw from the tournament through illness and has focused on recovering in time for the US PGA. “After becoming progressively ill over the past few days, I have made the unfortunate decision to withdraw from the (Truist Championship),” the 44-year-old wrote on social media.
“I am not in a state to complete, and it’s best for me to focus on a quick recovery prior to next week. Thanks to all the fans in Philly for the love this week. It’s a special place to me and I’m sorry it wasn’t a better week!”
