Rory McIlroy says preparation at ‘home course’ Augusta aided Masters defence

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Rory McIlroy has explained how weeks of preparation at “home course” Augusta National after advice from Jack Nicklaus played a substantial role in his https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/apr/13/rory-mcilroy-wins-masters-again-augusta-national-golf">successful ­Masters defence.

Rather than play in PGA Tour events in the lead up to the Masters and despite a back injury causing him competitive disruption, McIlroy spent considerable time at Augusta in the lead-up to the Masters.

On one occasion, it is understood he played the front nine in 29 when playing with a single ball.

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