McIlroy commits to Australian Open for 2025 and 2026 in major boost for historic tournament

SYDNEY: Masters champion Rory McIlroy has announced he will compete in the next two editions of the Australian Open, delivering a significant boost to one of golf’s oldest tournaments. The Northern Irishman, fresh off completing the career Grand Slam at Augusta last month, will tee it up at Royal Melbourne in December 2025 and Kingston Heath Golf Club in 2026.

“I’m proud to be committing to the Australian Open for the next two years, especially with it being played on the world-class Melbourne Sandbelt, somewhere I’ve always wanted to play professionally,” McIlroy said. “The success of the Australian Open is important for the global game.”

First played in 1904, the Australian Open has a rich history and a list of champions that includes legends like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player. However, in recent years it has struggled to attract top international players due to its timing and distance.

McIlroy’s return will mark his first appearance since 2013, when he edged out Adam Scott in a dramatic finish at Royal Sydney. A reunion with Scott is likely, with both players set to compete again this year.

The tournament will return to a traditional format after a mixed-gender structure, introduced in 2022, was abandoned earlier this year following player complaints. That initiative was originally launched to revitalize the event after a two-year COVID-19 hiatus.