Rory McIlroy makes big decision ahead of the Masters after beating JJ Spaun to win Players Championship

Rory McIlroy has confirmed he will play in the Texas Children’s Houston Open as his final tournament before heading to the Masters.

The Northern Irishman made the announcement following his victory at The Players Championship on Monday.

McIlroy defeated J.J. Spaun in a three-hole playoff at TPC Sawgrass to claim his second Players title.

“I think three weeks going in, it’s a little too much, so I’ll play one of the events in Texas, whether it’s Houston or San Antonio, I’m sure,” McIlroy said after his win.

The Houston Open will give the 35-year-old valuable competitive action before he once again attempts to complete the career grand slam at Augusta.

McIlroy staged a remarkable comeback during the final round at TPC Sawgrass.

He turned a four-shot deficit into a three-shot advantage on day four of The Players Championship.

Spaun forced a playoff following a lengthy delay due to the threat of lightning, which extended the tournament into Monday.

McIlroy ultimately prevailed in the three-hole playoff to secure his second victory of the 2025 PGA Tour season.

His earlier triumph came at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am at the beginning of the year.

The Players Championship win further cements McIlroy’s strong form as he prepares for his upcoming attempt to complete the career grand slam at Augusta.

The Houston Open gets underway on Thursday, 27 March, allowing McIlroy a week of rest before the Masters.