2026 Masters Champions Dinner honors Rory McIlroy Grand Slam
augustachronicle.com • • sports
Key Points:
- Rory McIlroy hosted the 2026 Masters Champions Dinner following his long-awaited victory, with Ben Crenshaw declaring the win "inevitable" and asking Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player to share remarks about McIlroy's journey.
- Thirty-three of 35 living past Masters champions attended the dinner, with Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson absent; Woods missed his third dinner since 2021, continuing the tradition of the event being under capacity.
- Crenshaw praised McIlroy's courage, especially his remarkable shot on the 15th hole, while Nicklaus and Player reflected on McIlroy's resilience and growth throughout his career, providing heartfelt and humorous speeches.
- The dinner featured a menu including yellowfin tuna, seared salmon, and wagyu filet mignon, with most guests opting for steak; the meal was highly praised for its quality and enjoyed by all attendees.
- McIlroy gave a composed and appreciative welcome speech, briefly acknowledging Tiger Woods' absence and emphasizing support for Woods' well-being.
