Rory McIlroy reveals ‘ironic’ note in his locker from ex-convict Masters winner

“And Angel Cabrera was the player I played with on the final day in 2011."

For years, Rory McIlroy's performance in the final round of the 2011 Masters was held over his head.

The Holywood man had a four-shot lead at the start of that day, but by the 10th hole, it had been whittled down to one, before his chances were completely blown with a triple bogey on that hole.

The man playing with him was Angel Cabrera, the 2009 champion, who had a stint in prison for assault from 2021-2023.

McIlroy revealed that the Argentinian left him a note in his locker before yesterday's final round.

He said: "What came out of me on the last green there in the playoff was, you know, at least 11 years, if not 14 years of pent-up emotion,” McIlroy said in his post-round press conference.

“You know, since 2011, I think it’s so ironic, as well. I got to my locker this morning and I opened it up, and there was a note in there from Angel Cabrera, and just wishing me luck.

“And Angel Cabrera was the player I played with on the final day in 2011. It was a nice touch and a little bit ironic at the same time. It’s been 14 long years, but thankfully I got the job done.”