Faldo Ranks McIlroy Fifth Among Golf Greats Following Masters Win

Rory McIlroy's recent Masters victory has elevated him into the top five of golf's all-time greats, according to former world number one Nick Faldo. Faldo, a six-time major winner, emphasized that McIlroy's achievement of completing the career Grand Slam—winning all four major championships—places him in an elite category alongside Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Ben Hogan, and Gary Player. Faldo argued that McIlroy's accomplishments are even more remarkable given the competitiveness of the modern era, noting McIlroy's 29 American victories and his persistence in finally securing a Masters title after 11 attempts. While some fans debate McIlroy's exact place among the legends due to his total of five majors, many agree he is now the greatest European golfer and his Grand Slam achievement sets him apart. Faldo placed McIlroy above Gene Sarazen, citing the difference in eras and the heightened difficulty of contemporary golf. McIlroy's journey to the Grand Slam took longer than any of the other six players to achieve it, making his triumph especially significant.