McIlroy: Masters win 'resonated' with public

MIAMI — Masters champion Rory McIlroy said the public's reaction to his enthralling victory at Augusta National had shown that his journey had connected with people in a special way.

The Northern Irishman completed the career Grand Slam of major wins 10 days ago at the Masters, with an emotion-filled playoff win over England's Justin Rose.

McIlroy had spent 11 years trying to add the Masters title to his wins in the other three majors and become just the sixth player in history to complete the career Grand Slam.

He did so in thrilling fashion, with his one-over 73 including six birdies, three bogeys and two double bogeys.

Since the tear-filled celebrations at Augusta, McIlroy has spent time with his family, including a trip home to Northern Ireland, but he is back in PGA Tour action on Thursday at the Zurich Class of New Orleans team event, where he aims to defend the title with Irish playing partner Shane Lowry.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, McIlroy said that he has received countless congratulations since sliding on the green jacket.

"It's not every day you get to fulfill one of your lifelong goals and dreams, and I've just really tried to enjoy everything that comes along with that," he said.

"It was an amazing few days after, and to be able to reflect on it and everything that happened and the magnitude of everything.

"I think the big thing for me is just how the whole journey sort of resonated with people and the people that have reached out to me. That's been absolutely amazing."

McIlroy said those congratulations came from all manner of people and from well beyond the sport itself.

"Yeah, very much beyond golf. I spoke to two presidents the day after, which was pretty cool. Just people reaching out from all walks of life, whether it be sports, entertainment, culture."