Paul McGinley reflects on a disappointing title defence for Rory McIlroy at The Players and what he may need to do, on and off the course, ahead of The Masters.
Aside from this week, McIlroy’s underlying numbers in 2026 have been good and he’s had a steady start to the season. But a back injury in the days before The Players clearly distracted him. The lack of preparation seemed to disengage him from competing at his usual level.
His driving was solid, yet his putting was really poor and his iron play wasn’t at its best, so overall it wasn’t a week where he was mentally tuned in. Now it’s a reset to get ready for Augusta. Playing the weekend was important — otherwise he would have upset his schedule and likely had to add another tournament before the majors. Having completed four rounds, he can continue recovering from the back issue, take a short break and get focused practice for Augusta National.
That said, a poor weekend will probably plant doubt that he needs more competitive rounds. If he’d finished strongly, he’d likely stick to his original plan; instead he’s considering an extra event. The Texas Children’s Houston Open would be a logical choice over the Valero Texas Open, given its success in preparing him for Augusta last year.
Defending a title brings extra obligations and distractions. As the defending Masters champion he will have more on-site responsibilities than usual, including hosting the champions’ dinner on Tuesday night — a significant moment and added focus in the week.
Although he drove well at The Players, the rest of his game lagged behind his usual standards. He finished second-last for putting among those who made the cut. His iron play looked better than in some recent weeks, but he did lose ground and perhaps a bit of confidence after good underlying performances in the Middle East and California.
Poor putting can be blamed in part on Poa Annua greens in early-season California events, but he didn’t find his putting form at Bay Hill or TPC Sawgrass either. Both venues have greens similar to those he practices on in Palm Beach, where he’s historically putted well, so that may add extra doubt heading into Augusta.
What’s next: the PGA Tour remains in Florida for the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook Resort. There are fewer than four weeks until the year’s first men’s major, with McIlroy’s Masters title defence coming April 9-12.