It was a day of high drama at Augusta, here's what Rory McIlroy had to say after winning the Masters on a day of high drama.
In a see-saw battle with himself, Holywood golfer McIlroy finally got to pull on the Green jacket in an absolute nail-biter of a playoff.
Wearing the jacket Rory said: "I go back to watching this tournament with my father when I was just seven watching Tiger Woods in 1997. To be up here wearing the same jacket as him today. My dreams have come true.
"This is such a unique event. It's an absolute pleasure to play in the atmosphere generated out there.
And as one fan shouted out 'we love you Rory!' - McIlroy replied quickly: "We love you too!"
He choked up as he mentioned his family and team, saying: "They stood by me, they knew the burden I had carrying this. And to my daughter Poppy I want to say, Never give up on your dreams. Keep coming back, keep working hard and I love you.
"It's an honour of a lifetime.This is a dream come true. I can't wait to be here next year and hopefully putting the green jacket back on myself."
First Minister Michelle O'Neill said: "Massive congratulations to Rory McIlroy on his incredible victory at The Masters—making history as the first ever from our island to win the prestigious Green Jacket!
"A phenomenal achievement that completes a career Grand Slam, placing him amongst the greatest ever golf players.
"This is a huge moment in sporting history, and one that has filled everyone back home with great pride and that will undoubtedly inspire future generations to chase their dreams. Enjoy the well-deserved celebrations, Rory!"
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said on X: "I am absolutely delighted for Rory. This is an incredible achievement and he truly has made Northern Ireland proud of the international stage.
"The way he held his nerve to win it and finally get the green jacket, and to complete the career Grand Slam is remarkable. Rory has enjoyed so much success in tournaments around the world, but this win will have been extra special for him as it ends the wait for a fifth major title and puts him in a very elite club alongside other golf legends like Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tiger Woods.
"So many people here were cheering him on every step of the way and now he has given us one of Northern Ireland’s biggest sporting achievements. He will undoubtedly get a deserved hero's welcome when he comes home. The reception when he steps onto the first tee at Royal Portrush in July will be incredible. Hopefully he can give the home fans plenty to cheer as he bids to win a second Open Championship."
His pal Graeme McDowell was also quick to add his delight on social media.
"Rory enters golf’s most elite club completing the Grand Slam. He’s one of the greatest I’ve ever seen playing this game. Wasn’t hard to see he was special. Proud to have been by his side a few times and watched him grow. Deserves to be called one of the greatest of all time," he stated on X.
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