Colin Cowherd Podcast - Rory McIlroy Stories: The Masters Win, Historical Rank, Tiger Woods

Alan Shipnuck is here. I tore through your new Rory book and it reframed what I thought I knew, so let’s start big: has Rory grown edgier and more defensive with age, the way great golfers sometimes harden to protect themselves?

That’s fair, but what makes Rory different is he still lets you in. He’s impulsive, plays with Phil’s swashbuckle more than Tiger’s control, says what he feels, and even owns it when he walks something back, which keeps him relatable.

Tiger became more human to fans late, and Rory’s gap after those early majors made him feel that way too; how should we frame his career now that he’s finally slipped on the green jacket?

I see three acts: boy-wonder to world No. 1, a long quest that ends with the Masters and a defining Ryder Cup, and now a freer Rory who’s loving Augusta. He’s unburdened, still hungry for history, and he doesn’t want to be a one-jacket guy.

Tiger was controlled then combustible, Phil was joyfully risky; is Rory the balanced middle—legacy-obsessed but also living well?

Yes. He’s avoided the scandals, enjoys the trappings, but stays grounded by family and childhood friends, and his warmth is real—more approachable than Tiger and less performative than Phil.

You show his reverence for legends, but also a raw range moment where he lit into you; what happened, and where do you two stand now?

Before a U.S. Open round he bristled at losing control over his story, which is understandable at his level. Months later he extended an olive branch, said the opening made him laugh, and I reminded him the book serves readers with a full, honest portrait.

Quick one—can he win this week?

He looked rusty coming in, but at Augusta he’s loose and joyful; I’d be surprised if he isn’t in it late Sunday.

From the outside it looks glamorous, but you describe a homesick kid; how did that shape him?

Early travel was lonely, so he chose a caddie who brings comfort, not swing advice. The Wozniacki breakup and a bruising agent split directly bled into his golf, and those scars give the later joy real depth.

He became the face of anti-LIV; was that handlers or his core beliefs?

It’s him. He was raised with a strong compass and deep respect for the Tours, turned down Saudi money before LIV existed, saw it as a values fight, and then used his clout to help remake the PGA Tour and keep stars home.

He feels like the most cheered non-American at U.S. majors; is that rare?

Very. Others had brief windows, but Rory’s bond comes from visible struggle and fragility, so his Masters wasn’t just a stat line—it felt like a human breakthrough.

Where does he rank all time, and what number is he really chasing?

Already in that top tier with a broader résumé than some who have more majors, and he once said nine is the target. With his longevity and purpose, a climb into the all-time handful is very much in play.

What’s it feel like inside his gallery?

His driver draws gasps that turn into laughter because it looks impossible for his size, and he pays the crowd back with eye contact and small kindnesses—very Palmer—which is why he’s beloved, not just admired.

Great stuff, Alan. Thanks for making time and for the book.

Always a pleasure, Colin. Thanks for the platform—happy to come back anytime.