| Special for Golfweek
AUGUSTA, Ga. — As Gerry McIlroy struck his tee shot on No. 1, a shout came from 20-feet behind. “Nice, dad,” hollered Rory, who was speaking with patrons on the left rope line.
Moments earlier, the defending champion began his 2026 Masters preparation alongside his father and Augusta National member’s Jimmy Dunne and Michael Walrath. Walking (but not looping) with the foursome was Rory’s caddie, Harry Diamond.
After nine holes, Rory confirmed that he and pops were “down three” to the Green Jackets.
Sunday marked the first time where Rory could partake in the long-standing tradition where former winners are permitted to invite a guest.
McIlroy chose dad.
Last April, Scottie Scheffler picked mom, Diane. This year, Ben Crenshaw asked his manager, Scotty Sayers. Crenshaw only played nine holes, and then commented on the state of his golf game.
“The only thing I can do these days is grow hair,” Gentle Ben said.
The 90th Masters Tournament begins Thursday, April 9.
