Rory McIlroy is back on top of the world – after winning the USPGA title at Kiawah Island on Sunday night, and Tiger Woods’ total of 14 major golf titles is now on his radar.
The 23-year-old from Holywood in County Down secured the second Major of his career as he swept the field aside. He has now won two majors at the same age as Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, putting him on pace to match those two legends.
Tiger was among those he left in his wake during his final two rounds but Woods was very much on McIlroy’s mind.
"Tiger's greatness has paid off for all of us who dream," said McIlroy. "I'm sure Jack Nicklaus did for him what he has done for the guys right now who want to be among the best. When I think about it, how can I be satisfied with two majors alongside the 14 Tiger has won, the 18 Jack has won. For me, it's a target.
"You want to go on. You want to try to become one of the greats. You want to keep dreaming. I hope I never stop."
Fellow Northern Irishman Graeme McDowell thinks it is possible.
"It's tough to say that Rory is a Tiger Woods-type player," said McDowell. "Tiger Woods is a once-in-a-lifetime type player, and Rory McIlroy is at least a once-in-a-decade type player. He's that good."
McIlroy returned to the top of the world rankings after his eight shot victory in South Carolina.
A bogey free round of 66 saw off the best golfers in the world as Rory added the final major of the season to his 2011 US Open win.
With dad Gerry on hand at the course and his mum Rosie watching on TV back home in Ireland, McIlroy was lost for words after lifting the Wannamaker Trophy.
He admitted, “I had a good feeling at the start of the week but I never imagined doing this.
“I don’t think I have let it sink in yet - it was a great round of golf - I am speechless.
“I got off to a bit of a shaky start, but settled into it and I thought my putting today was phenomenal.”
McIlroy embraced his dad at the side of the 18th green after sinking the sixth and final birdie of a glorious Sunday for Irish golf.
“Thanks dad and thanks mum - I’m sure she’s watching at home. I had a good feeling at the start, but I never imagined doing this,” added McIlroy at the victory presentation.
“It means an awful lot to look at the names on that trophy and put mine alongside them.”
Here's the Daily Telegraph report on Rory McIlroy's win:
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