Rory McIlroy delivered another unforgettable moment in front of home fans as he won the Irish Open at the K Club on Sunday evening, edging out Joakim Lagergren in a thrilling play-off.
The Holywood star looked to be out of contention until a spectacular eagle on the 72nd hole forced extra holes. After both men traded birdies on the opening two play-off holes, Lagergren found the water on the third, opening the door for McIlroy to seal victory with two putts.
It was the world number two's second Irish Open triumph at the K Club, having also lifted the trophy there in 2016, and comes in a year already marked by his career-defining Masters victory at Augusta.
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The packed crowd erupted as McIlroy claimed his long-awaited home success on Irish soil in dramatic fashion, once again.
The win not only extends his glittering list of titles but also comes with a significant financial reward. McIlroy banked $1,020,000 for finishing top of the leaderboard on 17-under-par after rounds of 71, 66, 68 and 66.
Runner-up Lagergren, who had earlier holed a stunning eagle at the 16th to pile on the pressure, left Dublin with $660,000.
Spain's Angel Hidalgo and Rafa Cabrera Bello shared third on 15-under, each earning $337,800 for their efforts.
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There was also a healthy payday for Shane Lowry. The Offaly native produced steady rounds of 69, 71, 70 and 71 to finish tied for 15th on seven-under-par, which earned him $81,120.
Elsewhere, France's Adrien Saddier and Ángel Ayora shared fifth place on 13-under, taking home $232,200 apiece, while Finland's Oliver Lindell collected $180,000 for seventh.
With Wentworth and the Ryder Cup at Bethpage still to come, Ireland's greatest golfing star is building serious momentum during what is shaping up to be one of the most memorable seasons of his career.
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