Rory McIlroy’s storybook win at the 2025 Masters will go down in golf history — but behind the celebration lies a lesser-told story of near heartbreak. Enter Justin Rose, the seasoned Englishman who came dangerously close to shattering Rory’s long-awaited Grand Slam dream.
While Rory left Augusta in tears of joy, he nearly left in shock — and we have Rose’s final-round magic to thank for the suspense.
🔥 Rose’s Red-Hot Sunday Surge
Starting the final round three shots behind, Justin Rose came out swinging. His round of 66 (-6) was the lowest of the day — and the kind of late-round brilliance that left the crowd gasping and McIlroy sweating.
Key highlights:
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Back-to-back birdies on 13 and 14
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A near eagle at 15 that lipped out
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Clutch par saves on 16 and 17
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A birdie at 18 to tie McIlroy at −11
By the time Rose walked off the 18th green, the pressure had shifted squarely onto Rory, who still had holes to play and no room for error.
⛳ The Playoff That Almost Wasn’t
If McIlroy had blinked — even for a moment — Rose would’ve been the 2025 Masters champion. But fate had other plans.
The playoff was brief but intense. On the first hole, McIlroy drained a birdie putt while Rose missed his. Just like that, Rory was a champion, and Rose was a near-miss footnote… again.
But make no mistake: Rose was this close to spoiling one of golf’s greatest storylines.
💬 The Golf World Reacts
“If not for Rory’s birdie, we’d be talking about Rose’s career revival today.”
“That was vintage Justin Rose — calm, calculated, clutch.”
Golf fans poured online with praise for Rose’s performance, calling it one of the most underappreciated final rounds in recent Masters memory.
🎯 What It Means Going Forward
While McIlroy completed his Grand Slam, Rose’s resurgence is big news too. At 44, he’s proving he’s not done yet — and could be a real contender at the U.S. Open and The Open Championship this year.
For bettors, fans, and fantasy golf players: don’t sleep on Justin Rose.
📰 Dive Deeper
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Rory McIlroy Makes History: Wins 2025 Masters in Thrilling Playoff to Complete Career Grand Slam
