Justin Rose might have failed to win The Masters as he lost to Rory McIlroy in a tense playoff but it appears he won the hearts of golf fans around the world regardless.
Rose produced a stunning final round to reel McIlroy in and send things to a playoff on 18.
The Englishman then produced a stunning shot himself to get to within 15 feet but he saw his putt for a birdie drift just wide before McIlroy tapped on from a couple of feet to win.
McIlroy was emotional as he dropped to his knees after holing the putt but he hauled himself up to shake hands and in doing so, shared a warm embrace with good friend Rose.
Rose appeared to tell McIlroy he deserved it and embraced him in what was a touching moment for two of Europe’s greatest golf exports.
And over on social media, golf fans were absolutely loving what Rose did as some even suggested he be given a lifetime exemption to the tournament.
Golf fans are loving Justin Rose as he loses to Rory McIlroy at The Masters
Justin Rose is often seen as one of golf’s good guys and he very much seemed genuinely happy for McIlroy as he won.
The emotion was clear, but Rose’s class shone through and golf fans over on X absolutely lauded him for how he handled McIlroy.
Another golf fan praised Rose, suggesting he is a player who people should look up to as a human.
“Justin Rose is such a spectacular human. Very rare to see somebody lose with such grace and even happiness for his opponent. So close to heartbreak for Rory. You could tell how nervous he was. And he stepped up. What an emotional finish. So many parallels to life.”
While another suggested Rose now gets an invite every year to Augusta.
“Justin Rose deserves a lifetime Masters exemption”
Experienced golf journalist Michael McEwan also praised Rose, calling him a ‘class act’.
“Justin Rose is an absolute class act. I want him to win the PGA by a hundred.”
While another followed suit, suggesting Rose is a real role model for young golfers.
“Way to go Rory! But wow Justin Rose. What a day. Justin Rose is the perfect role model. He has gotten every single ounce out of himself. He is a true professional.”
And that feeling continued, as another fan also noted Rose’s behaviour right until the last minute.
“A word for Justin Rose – all class, til the absolute last. I hope he wins the Masters next year or at least another major. Phenomenal golfer and if it was him against anyone else today I’d have rooted for him all day long. Class guy.”
Justin Rose was initially criticised before teeing off in the playoff
With plenty of fans here raving about Justin Rose and the behaviour and attitude he showed, it’s worth noting that just before the playoff with McIlroy, Rose was criticised.
Indeed, the criticism came from golf analyst Andrew Coltart, who suggested players should be at the tee box at the same time.
For reference, Rose left McIlroy waiting quite a while before driving over as there was an element of confusion over when things would begin.
In the end, it mattered little, and it would be interesting to hear if McIlroy actually noticed.
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