Here's a summary of the article about Rory McIlroy:
**The 2011 Masters: A Crucial Learning Experience**
Rory McIlroy's performance at the 2011 Masters was a turning point in his career. Despite leading by nine strokes with nine holes to go, McIlroy unraveled and finished second to Bubba Watson.
**A Historic Victory at the US Open**
Just eight weeks after his Masters heartbreak, McIlroy won the US Open, becoming the youngest major winner since Tiger Woods at The Masters in 1997. He shot a tournament record 16-under par, completing an eight-shot victory over Phil Mickelson and Justin Rose.
**A Golden Era for McIlroy**
McIlroy's success at the US Open kickstarted a golden era in his career. He went on to win three more majors (2012 PGA Championship and 2014 Open Championship) and became one of the most dominant golfers in the world.
**The Elusive Masters Title**
Despite seven top-10 finishes at Augusta National, McIlroy remains the only major champion without a green jacket. His best finish since then was runner-up to Scottie Scheffler last year.
**Time is Still on His Side**
At 33 years old, time is still on McIlroy's side. He had an impressive finish in 2022, his best golf since 2014. As he prepares for his 15th appearance at Augusta National this week, the stage is set for another historic victory or crushing disappointment.
Overall, Rory McIlroy's performance at the 2011 Masters was a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing both his potential and his vulnerability. His subsequent success has cemented his status as one of golf's all-time greats, but the elusive Masters title remains an open question.
**The 2011 Masters: A Crucial Learning Experience**
Rory McIlroy's performance at the 2011 Masters was a turning point in his career. Despite leading by nine strokes with nine holes to go, McIlroy unraveled and finished second to Bubba Watson.
**A Historic Victory at the US Open**
Just eight weeks after his Masters heartbreak, McIlroy won the US Open, becoming the youngest major winner since Tiger Woods at The Masters in 1997. He shot a tournament record 16-under par, completing an eight-shot victory over Phil Mickelson and Justin Rose.
**A Golden Era for McIlroy**
McIlroy's success at the US Open kickstarted a golden era in his career. He went on to win three more majors (2012 PGA Championship and 2014 Open Championship) and became one of the most dominant golfers in the world.
**The Elusive Masters Title**
Despite seven top-10 finishes at Augusta National, McIlroy remains the only major champion without a green jacket. His best finish since then was runner-up to Scottie Scheffler last year.
**Time is Still on His Side**
At 33 years old, time is still on McIlroy's side. He had an impressive finish in 2022, his best golf since 2014. As he prepares for his 15th appearance at Augusta National this week, the stage is set for another historic victory or crushing disappointment.
Overall, Rory McIlroy's performance at the 2011 Masters was a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing both his potential and his vulnerability. His subsequent success has cemented his status as one of golf's all-time greats, but the elusive Masters title remains an open question.