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Rory McIlroy Joins Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus in Elite Golf Record After CJ Cup Win

ByArjun Athreya

Oct 18, 2021 | 7:42 AM EDT

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Rory McIlroy has begun his 2021-22 PGA Tour campaign on a high! He’s now a 20-time champion on the tour, courtesy of his latest win at the CJ Cup. McIlroy showcased tremendous grit in the final round to hold off Rickie Fowler and Collin Morikawa and seize the title. Along with winning his 20th PGA Tour event, McIlroy also etched his place in the history books.

Rory McIlroy is undoubtedly a generational talent. However, just like any other player, McIlroy has endured his fair share of ups and downs, but he’s learned to keep himself motivated during the low points in his career. That in turn enables him to bounce back strong whenever there’s an opportunity.

The CJ Cup 2021 was a mighty example as Rory McIlroy was in contention right from the start. He posted low scores after the other and was just two strokes behind 54-hole leader Rickie Fowler heading into the final round. On Sunday, McIlroy completed the comeback and marked his name alongside Tiger Woods and a few others in an exclusive golf record!

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Rory McIlroy joins Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus in the history books

Winning professional golf tournaments requires tremendous consistency over four days. Over the years, we’ve witnessed some excellent players dominating on the tour, and it is safe to say that Rory McIlroy has been one of them.

Ever since the introduction of The Masters tournament in 1934, only a handful of golfers have won 20 tour events including four majors before turning 33. Only five players had achieved this feat until McIlroy joined the list with his victory at the CJ Cup.

.@McIlroyRory is the 6th player since the first Masters was held in 1934 to win 20 PGA Tour events, including 4 majors, before age 33. Players to do it:
Byron Nelson
Arnold Palmer
Jack Nicklaus
Tom Watson
Tiger Woods
Rory McIlroy
— Justin Ray (@JustinRayGolf) October 18, 2021

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McIlroy brought up his 20th tour win a final round 66 at The Summit Club. He finished the tournament at 25-under and won it by one stroke ahead of Collin Morikawa. This victory placed McIlroy on such an elite list alongside the greatest players to ever play the game of golf.

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Even the great Phil Mickelson does not have a place on this list as he did not win a major until he turned 34. Hence, this is an achievement of massive proportions for 32-Rory McIlroy Joins Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus in Elite Golf Record After CJ Cup Winyear-old McIlroy. How many more events do you think he’ll go on to win this season?