Stephen Curry Praises Rory McIlroy After Historic Masters Win: “That Was Legendary”
In a stunning display of athletic greatness across sports, NBA superstar Stephen Curry has shared his admiration and respect for Rory McIlroy following the golfer’s historic win at the 2025 Masters Tournament. McIlroy, who had long chased the elusive green jacket to complete his career Grand Slam, finally achieved the feat with a dominant performance at Augusta National—sparking reactions from sports icons around the globe, including the Golden State Warriors’ sharpshooter.
Curry, known not only for his basketball brilliance but also for his deep love of golf, took to social media shortly after McIlroy’s final putt dropped on the 18th green. “That was legendary,” Curry posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Rory’s been grinding for this moment, and to see him pull it off at Augusta? Goosebumps. Pure greatness.”
The two athletes have shared a mutual respect over the years, even teeing it up together at charity events and golf outings. Curry, who has competed in professional golf tournaments himself, understands the magnitude of McIlroy’s win more intimately than most athletes outside the sport.
McIlroy’s victory came in dramatic fashion. After starting the final round three strokes back, he surged to the lead with a blistering front nine and held off a late challenge from world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. With this win, McIlroy became only the sixth man in golf history to complete the career Grand Slam—joining the ranks of Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Ben Hogan, and Gene Sarazen.
“Rory’s been in that Sunday pressure cooker before, and this time, he didn’t just handle it—he owned it,” Curry said in an interview after the Warriors’ post-game press conference. “As a fan of greatness, you just have to salute that.”
Curry’s connection to golf goes beyond casual fandom. He’s invested in growing the game, especially among younger and more diverse audiences, and founded the UNDERRATED Golf Tour in 2022 to give opportunities to underrepresented junior golfers. He often speaks about the mental discipline and composure golf requires—traits that were on full display in McIlroy’s final round at Augusta.
“People don’t realize how mental this game is. That’s why I respect Rory’s journey so much,” Curry added. “He’s battled pressure, media, expectations. To win this way, with the world watching—it’s inspiring.”
As two of the most recognizable names in their respective sports, Curry and McIlroy are united not just by talent, but by a relentless drive to chase greatness. And on this historic Masters Sunday, even one of basketball’s greatest shooters couldn’t help but tip his hat to golf’s newest legend.
“Legends recognize legends,” Curry said with a smile. “And today, Rory added a chapter that will live forever.”
