Tom McKibbin experienced a bittersweet week at The Masters, where his fellow Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy won the title.
McIlroy claimed his second successive green jacket with a one-shot win over Scottie Scheffler at Augusta National, securing his sixth career major win.
Meanwhile, still very much in the early stages of his career, McKibbin failed to make the cut after finishing his first two rounds on seven-over.
Nonetheless, it was an extremely proud moment for 23-year-old McKibbin as he made his debut at The Masters.
The LIV Golf player has now looked back on his week in Georgia on social media, as well as sending the champion a heartfelt message.
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Tom McKibbin congratulates Rory McIlroy on his win at The Masters
Sharing images of his time at Augusta, McKibbin wrote on X: “First experience at The Masters was unforgettable, I had an amazing experience and something I won’t forget.
“Massive congratulations to Rory McIlroy on going back-to-back.
“Thank you to everyone for making it possible, I can’t wait to come back!”
He has clearly remained upbeat despite missing the four-over cut line, having carded rounds of 75 and 76 on Thursday and Friday.
But he certainly wasn’t the only LIV Golf player to struggle, with only five of their 10 starters doing enough to make the weekend.
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It’s a significant milestone for McKibbin, who certainly knows McIlroy and the story of the six-time major winner well.
The duo both plied their trade at Holywood Golf Club in Northern Ireland, and have crossed paths at various stages of their professional careers.
That includes last week at Augusta, with McKibbin having practised with McIlroy before The Masters got underway.
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The pair came very close to regularly competing against each other on the PGA Tour too, but McKibbin opted to reject his card in favor of a move to LIV Golf in 2025.
Playing with Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton for Legion XIII, he is currently 38th in the individual standings for the 2026 season.
All three players are now in the field for LIV Golf Mexico City this week, while McIlroy is not in the field for the RBC Heritage on the PGA Tour.
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