‘Free’ McIlroy searching for new mountainspublished at 12:52 BST
McIlroy (15:31 BST)
Jonathan Jurejko
BBC Sport golf reporter
Image source, Getty ImagesThere are numerous perks which come with winning the Masters. Rory McIlroy is well aware of each and every benefit provided by Augusta National.
The biggest one for McIlroy is less tangible than the Green Jacket in the wardrobe, the sterling silver replica trophy on the mantelpiece, or the reserved spot in the car park.
Finally landing the Masters last year provides an intrinsic value which the 36-year-old from Northern Ireland has long been searching for.
Freedom. The freedom to play uninhibited at the sport’s most iconic tournament, no longer weighed down by hope, expectation and history.
While he is light on form coming into his Augusta return, McIlroy says his mind is uncluttered. No longer will clean ball-striking be impaired by nebulous thinking.
That, he hopes, can secure entry into another exclusive club – those who have won back-to-back Masters.
