McIlroy’s Playoff Eagle Clinches Irish Open, Fires Ryder Cup Warning to Team USA

Rory McIlroy Sends Ryder Cup Warning with Dramatic Irish Open Victory
By Riath Al-Samarrai, Chief Sports Feature Writer
Published: 21:01 BST, 7 September 2025 | Updated: 21:01 BST, 7 September 2025

Rory McIlroy clinched his fourth title of the season at the Irish Open in thrilling fashion on Sunday, defeating Sweden’s Joakim Lagergren in a tense three-hole playoff. The victory, his first since winning the Masters in April, showcased McIlroy’s resilience and flair under pressure—a timely boost ahead of this month’s Ryder Cup.

[]
Rory McIlroy’s impressive recent form continued as he claimed victory at the Irish Open.

The drama peaked on the 72nd hole. Trailing by one stroke, McIlroy needed an eagle on the par-5 18th to force a playoff. After a bold second shot to the green, he drained a 27-foot putt—a feat achieved by only one other player all day. “I knew it had to drop,” McIlroy said. “Moments like that stay with you forever.”

The playoff saw both players birdie the 18th twice before returning for a third time. Lagergren, under mounting pressure, faltered with a wayward approach into the water, while McIlroy sealed victory with a steady birdie. The win marks McIlroy’s second Irish Open title and sparked emotional celebrations from the home crowd.

[]
The 36-year-old secured the win after defeating Sweden’s Joakim Lagergren in a tense play-off.

McIlroy’s triumph was fueled by a scorching putter. Despite erratic driving, he gained over 160 feet in putts during his final-round 66, including jaw-dropping makes from 38 and 42 feet early on. A stroke of luck also helped: a wayward drive on the 15th skirted water, and a putt on the 13th circled the cup before dropping. “Sometimes you need breaks,” he admitted.

Reflecting on his 2025 resurgence, McIlroy called it potentially his “best year yet,” highlighting his Masters triumph and this emotional home victory. “Winning here means so much,” he said. “But there’s more to come—Wentworth, the Ryder Cup… we’re just getting started.”

[]
McIlroy still has a lot to look forward to as he prepares for the Ryder Cup later this month.

With the Ryder Cup looming, McIlroy’s form sends a clear warning to Team USA. Europe’s talisman has rediscovered his clutch factor, combining precision and nerve when it matters most. As he gears up for Wentworth and then Rome, rivals will note this display—a masterclass in turning pressure into glory.

Final Scorecard

• McIlroy: 68-67-70-66 (-17)
• Lagergren: 67-68-69-67 (-17)

Key Stat: McIlroy’s 160+ feet of putts made in the final round—his best putting performance this season.

What’s Next?
McIlroy heads to the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth before joining Team Europe’s Ryder Cup campaign. If this win is any indication, the Americans have reason to worry.