Five-Time Major Winner Rory McIlroy Set to Compete in Australian Open for First Time in Over a Decade

Rory McIlroy, a five-time major champion and the current titleholder of the Masters, will make his long-awaited return to the Australian Open this year, marking his first appearance in the tournament since 2014.

On Wednesday, Golf Australia confirmed that the Irish golf sensation will travel to Australia to compete in an event previously dubbed golf’s fifth major.

McIlroy is set to participate in the tournament in both 2025 and 2026.

This year’s edition is scheduled to take place at Royal Melbourne in the first week of December, while next year’s event will unfold at Kingston Heath Golf Club, meaning Victoria will have hosted the Australian Open for three consecutive years.

The 35-year-old McIlroy secured the Australian Open title back in 2013 and played his last tournament there in 2014.

“I’m thrilled to commit to the Australian Open for the next two years, especially given it’ll be held on the incredible Melbourne Sandbelt, which I have always wanted to play professionally,” McIlroy stated.

“The importance of the Australian Open’s success cannot be underestimated for the global golfing landscape, and I firmly believe it will flourish this year, especially with it taking place in one of the great sporting hubs of the world and on two outstanding golf courses over the next couple of years.”

“Melbourne is renowned as a premier sporting city, and I am eager to embrace that vibrant atmosphere and experience everything the city has to offer, both on and off the green.”

Although McIlroy has not yet confirmed his participation in the Australian PGA Championship, another major event typically held a week prior to the Open, he is certainly a welcome addition to the lineup.

The Australian Open boasts a prestigious reputation globally, and McIlroy previously suggested that it should be elevated to major status, placing it alongside the Masters, PGA Championship, British Open, and US Open, all of which he has won.

“The Australian Open should practically be regarded as the fifth major. The potential market down there is massive,” McIlroy remarked during the Dubai Desert Classic.

“The Australians are passionate about golf and sport in general. They’ve been yearning for top-tier golf, and the quality of the courses is exceptional.”

While the international draw of the Australian majors has waned somewhat in recent years, McIlroy’s participation certainly reignites interest.

Just last month, he donned his first Masters jacket, completing a career grand slam that only six golfers have accomplished in the history of the sport.

According to Golf Digest, fellow Aussie stars Min Woo Lee, Adam Scott, and Cameron Smith are all expected to compete in the Open later this year.