GOLF: Rory McIlroy back at Pebble Beach, where memorable '25 began

A visit to Pebble Beach last year set the stage for one of Rory McIlroy’s most memorable seasons.

McIlroy captured a two-shot victory at the 2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, sparking a remarkable run that included a win at The Players Championship and the completion of his career Grand Slam with a Green Jacket at the Masters.

The 36-year-old Northern Ireland star returns to the Monterey Peninsula this week aiming to defend his Pebble Beach crown.

"Last year was a great way to start the 2025 season," McIlroy said. "Historically, I haven't played Pebble Beach that well. I've played okay, but nothing spectacular. Winning on a course where I hadn’t really contended before gave me a lot of confidence going into the rest of the season."

He reflected on his performance at Pebble Beach Golf Links: "I was pleased with how in control I was with my ball flight, especially in tough conditions on Saturday. I worked on a lot of things in the offseason that I brought with me here. It was a massive confidence boost, and then I went on to play well early in the season, won at The Players, and then at the Masters. It was a perfect way to start the year. Hoping for something similar this year."

McIlroy credited his aggressive approach and strong putting for last year’s victory. "I hit driver a lot, giving myself short irons in," he said. "Last year, it was probably my best putting performance ever on poa greens. Usually, I struggle a bit on the West Coast, but last year I holed a lot of putts, and that made a big difference."

He has carried his form from last season into the new year. After the PGA Tour playoffs, McIlroy won the Irish Open, tied for third in Abu Dhabi, and finished second at the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai. He also tied for 14th at the Australian Open and had solid results in Middle Eastern events to start 2026.

"My game feels in good shape," McIlroy said. "I had two weeks in Dubai to shake off the rust. Played okay, nothing spectacular, but after two nice weeks at home and some practice, I feel pretty good coming in here."

-Field Level Media/Reuters