There will be a notable absence at this year’s Masters Champions Dinner. But Rory McIlroy is planning on acknowledging Tiger Woods in the process.
The annual dinner will take place less than two weeks after the golfer’s DUI arrest in Jupiter, Florida and his subsequent decision to step away from the sport to focus on his health and treatment.
Speaking to Golf Channel, McIlroy expressed his excitement for the Tuesday evening festivities while also planning to pay tribute to Woods and Phil Mickelson, who will also be absent due to a family health matter.
‘Unfortunately, there will be a couple of guys that won’t be in that room, which is a shame,’ said the Irish Olympian, Ryder Cup winner, and reigning Masters champion. ‘But I want to make sure that they’re acknowledged as well.
‘They’ve been two of the greatest champions that the Masters has ever seen. But it’s going to be a really cool night. I can’t wait. I hope everyone enjoys the dinner and enjoys everything that I’ve selected.’
The 50-year-old Woods is seeking treatment after his March 27 arrest when deputies said they discovered two opioid pain killers in his pocket after crashing his SUV.
Rory McIlroy plans to acknowledge Tiger Woods at the Masters Champions Dinner
Woods stepped away from the sport after his arrest for DUI in Florida on March 27
McIlroy will also acknowledge Phil Mickelson, who is dealing with a family health issue
Authorities claim Woods showed ‘several signs of impairment,’ including ‘bloodshot and glassy’ eyes with ‘extremely dilated pupils.’
In bodycam footage, the five-time Masters winner told police that he was ‘hoping to’ play in the Masters – but that it ‘depends on y’all.’
The crash took place just days after Woods took part in the final day of the TGL virtual golf league. It was the first competitive golf he played since July of 2024.
As for Mickelson, the 55-year-old announced last week that he’d be withdrawing ‘as my family continues to navigate a personal health matter.’
McIlroy gets the honor of hosting the dinner after his playoff victory over Justin Rose to clinch the career grand slam.
