McIlroy's career grand slam 'a truly outstanding achievement,' says President of Ireland

Irish golfer Rory McIlroy ended his major drought in barely-believable fashion by beating Englishman Justin Rose in a play-off to win the 89th Masters and complete the career grand slam. 

Many congratulations have been rolling in for the Holywood native, including from the President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, who took to social media, offering kind words to the sports-star. 

Firstly congratulating him on winning the Masters and completing his highly sought after career grand slam, Mr Higgins said it is "a truly outstanding achievement" for Mr McIlroy. 

Also chiming in was Taoiseach Micheál Martin who stated, "The green jacket is yours Rory McIlroy! A finish for the ages at Augusta to win the Masters and complete a richly-deserved Grand Slam.

"Epic achievement by one of golf's greatest talents," he added. 

Tánaiste Simon Harris also expressed his congratulations to the golf player, saying, "A first Masters and a career grand slam means he joins some of the very greatest to have ever played the game. 

"A proud day for him, his family and Ireland," Mr Harris stated. 

The First Minister of Northern Ireland, Michelle O'Neill, also spoke on the Holywood native's incredible achievement.  

Taking to X, Ms O'Neill said, "Massive congratulations to Rory McIlroy on his incredible victory at the Masters—making history as the first ever from our island to win the prestigious green jacket!

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"A phenomenal achievement that completes a career grand slam, placing him amongst the greatest ever golf players.

"This is a huge moment in sporting history, and one that has filled everyone back home with great pride and that will undoubtedly inspire future generations to chase their dreams," she concluded. 

Also beaming with pride was the Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland, Emma Little-Pengelly, who said she is "absolutely delighted" at the victory. 

"This is an incredible achievement and he truly has made Northern Ireland proud of the international stage. The way he held his nerve to win it and finally get the green jacket, and to complete the career Grand Slam is remarkable.

"Rory has enjoyed so much success in tournaments around the world, but this win will have been extra special for him as it ends the wait for a fifth major title and puts him in a very elite club alongside other golf legends like Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tiger Woods.

"So many people here were cheering him on every step of the way and now he has given us one of Northern Ireland’s biggest sporting achievements.

"He will undoubtedly get a deserved hero's welcome when he comes home. The reception when he steps onto the first tee at Royal Portrush in July will be incredible. Hopefully he can give the home fans plenty to cheer as he bids to win a second Open Championship," she spoke. 

As Rory McIlroy finally slipped on the green jacket and etched his name into golfing history, this chorus of cheers only amplifies this life-changing moment for him. From heartfelt tributes to joy and disbelief, the reactions to his career grand slam show just how far the golfer's influence stretches. 

For many, this was not just a win but rather a long-awaited triumph and judging by the outpouring of love and support, this was not just a personal for the Belfast man, it was universal.