April 26, 2025 | By YourGolfGOATS Editorial Team
Golf fans witnessed history, heart, and high-stakes drama this week across the professional tours. From Rory McIlroy completing the career Grand Slam to Justin Thomas ending a multi-year winless streak, and LIV Golf ramping up its global presence, the past seven days have reshaped storylines and legacies alike.
🟢 Rory’s Green Jacket Completes the Slam
Rory McIlroy’s Masters triumph will be remembered as one of the most emotional milestones in modern golf. With this victory at Augusta National, McIlroy becomes just the sixth player in history to complete the career Grand Slam, joining Sarazen, Hogan, Player, Nicklaus, and Woods.
His final-round 67 showcased vintage Rory — laser-like irons, aggressive tee shots, and emotional resilience. In a cheeky yet meaningful postscript, McIlroy updated his social media bio to simply:
“Grand Slam winner.”
“It means the world. I’ve been chasing this for a decade. I finally feel complete as a golfer,” McIlroy said in the Butler Cabin ceremony.
🔴 Justin Thomas Breaks the Drought at Harbour Town
Over at Hilton Head, Justin Thomas reminded the golf world that greatness doesn’t fade — it regroups. After nearly three years without a PGA Tour win, JT delivered a wire-to-wire performance at the RBC Heritage, culminating in a clutch 21-foot birdie putt in a playoff.
His 16th career PGA victory silenced doubts and pocketed a $3.6 million check, but more importantly, restored his spot in the game’s elite conversation.
“It’s been a humbling ride. This one’s for everyone who stuck with me,” Thomas said, tears in his eyes.
🟡 LIV Golf Expands, and Bryson Bombs in Mexico
The controversial but undeniably captivating LIV Golf Tour returned to headlines with its event in Mexico City. Bryson DeChambeau, ever the showman, launched an 8-under 63 to lead after Round 1, outgunning Jon Rahm and Cameron Smith.
Behind the scenes, LIV’s global strategy surged forward. Torque GC signed a major new sponsor, following the precedent set by Rahm’s Legion XIII and Callaway — signaling growing commercial momentum.
🔵 Chevron Championship: Liu Yan’s Moment to Shine?
In the women’s game, Liu Yan has emerged as a surprise front-runner at the Chevron Championship. Sitting at 7-under through two rounds, she holds a narrow lead over a strong chasing pack that includes Lindy Duncan and Kim Hyo-joo.
Meanwhile, world number one Nelly Korda struggled in the opening round, carding a rare 77, leaving her fighting to make the cut.
⚪ Tour Tracker: Zurich Classic & More
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans — the PGA Tour’s only team event — saw Isaiah Salinda and Kevin Velo surge to the top at 17-under. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry slid back after a bogey-filled second round, now tied for 16th.
On the LIV circuit, Mexico’s event marks a pivotal run-up to next week’s stop in Korea (May 2–4), as the league continues to test its global draw.
🧢 Brand Buzz: Titleist GTs & LIV Sponsorships
- Titleist’s new GT driver line has appeared on the USGA conforming list, setting off buzz among gearheads and pros alike.
- PING launched their 2025 Tour Staff Bag with expanded pockets and lighter materials.
- Callaway continues its strong visibility via LIV, now supplying equipment for multiple teams including Rahm’s Legion XIII and Torque GC.
📈 Stat Watch: Rory in Rarefied Air
With his win at Augusta, Rory McIlroy enters GOAT territory — not only statistically but symbolically. He is the:
- Sixth Grand Slam winner ever
- Youngest to win all four majors after Tiger Woods
- First since Tiger to win a major after 10+ years of waiting
⛳ What’s Next?
- Final rounds Sunday at the Zurich Classic and Chevron Championship.
- LIV Korea tees off next Friday.
- PGA Tour heads to Quail Hollow for the Wells Fargo Championship, where McIlroy is a past champion and will be the center of attention.
🏁 Final Word
This week had it all: history made, slumps snapped, sponsors signed, and putts drained under pressure. Golf is thriving — across tours, genders, and generations. And if this week was any indication, the road to the next major is already paved with stories worth watching.
🔁 Stay with YourGolfGOATS for weekly updates, analysis, and deep dives. Because GOATS never rest — and neither do we.
