Rory McIlroy dropped an interesting nugget during a press conference at East Lake Golf Club ahead of the 2025 Tour Championship, disclosing that he purchased 1,100 Masters flags from the Augusta National pro shop to celebrate his career Grand Slam.
The Northern Irishman’s historic win at Augusta marked his fifth major title and cemented his place among golf’s elite, and now his unprecedented shopping spree is making headlines.
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, McIlroy, 36, reflected on his emotional triumph at the 2025 Masters, where he defeated Justin Rose in a dramatic playoff to claim the green jacket and complete the career Grand Slam, joining legends like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus.
The victory ended an 11-year major drought for McIlroy, who had previously won the U.S. Open (2011), PGA Championship (2012, 2014), and The Open Championship (2014).
With a grin, McIlroy shared the story of his post-victory purchase: “They had 1,100 extra flags left in the merchandise facility at the end of the week, and we took all 1,100,” he said, sparking laughter from the media.
“I’ve waited 17 years to sign that flag in the middle, and I will never complain about doing it.”
The iconic yellow Masters flags, which bear the Augusta National logo, are a cherished keepsake, and tradition dictates that only the champion signs inside the outline of the U.S. on the logo—a privilege McIlroy clearly relishes.
The purchase, estimated to cost around $33,000 based on typical Masters merchandise pricing, is believed to be one of the largest single transactions in Augusta’s pro shop history.
McIlroy clarified that he acquired the flags to sign and give away to fans, friends, and possibly charitable causes.
“It’s been a lot,” he said of the signing process, “but I’ll never get sick of it.”
McIlroy’s 2025 season has been a standout, with wins at The Players Championship, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, and the Masters, though he admitted his form has dipped since April, partly due to the emotional weight of achieving his lifelong goal. As he prepares to tee off at East Lake alongside World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler on Thursday, McIlroy remains focused but reflective.
Whether McIlroy adds a fourth FedEx Cup to his resume this week, his 1,100-flag haul has already etched another chapter in his storied career, blending triumph, generosity, and a touch of flair that only he could pull off.
