Great Day In Golf: Rory’s here and Tiger’s back

PGA National Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, the site of the 2012 Honda Classic, will always be remembered for when Rory McIlroy became the top-ranked golfer in the world for the first time. Tiger Woods’ closing round 62, the lowest Sunday finish of his career, could also become historic.

The 22-year old McIlroy’s climb to number one has been impressive. He showed true character and perseverance after his meltdown at The Masters by winning the U.S. Open with a solid performance. In the last 12 events, he has managed a remarkable 11 top-5 finishes. That strong run includes three victories and five runner-ups.

During the last round while Tiger was finishing birdie-eagle to go to 12-under Sunday, Rory showed his toughness. The Northern Irleand star made birdie at 13 and drained some tough pars on each of the finishing holes for a two-stroke win. A lesser player would have melted,  but Rory rose to the occasion with confidence in his step. McIlroy is here to stay.

On Friday, Woods birdied the last two holes to just make the cut. Friday was an important day in his life. It opened the door to a stellar Sunday reminding us of how great Woods has been and can be again.

In my opinion, this weekend’s results were less a result of a another swing coach, new caddy and new management. Instead, the support of his mother with his son Charlie in the gallery tell the tale. I have always felt that when his personal life was back in order, Tiger would be on his winning ways. Maybe this is a start of a new personal journey.

Golf was the big winner Sunday. The berth of the Rory McIroy/Tiger Woods rivalry has the same feel as Jack Nicklaus/Arnold Palmer. We welcome Rory as our number one golfer in the world, and we welcome Tiger back to the fight.