Rory McIlroy burst onto the scene as a powerful dynamo. He finally won the career grand slam by evolving his game to navigate courses like a wily veteran.

"It will take the world off his shoulders and you're now going to see a lot more of really good golf out of Rory McIlroy," Nicklaus said after the match.

It was the night before the 2025 Masters Tournament, and Nick Faldo and Ben Crenshaw sat on a back porch for a soiree typical for this time of year around here. Small, exclusive, deep-pocketed. A fireside chat between the two Masters winners was tabbed as the highlight of the evening.