IT was hard to find a dry eye in the house, let alone anyone who would begrudge Rory McIlroy finally breaking his Masters hoodoo to win a Career Grand Slam.
And his Scottish Ryder Cup pal has shown support for him in his own way – despite his personal struggles at Augusta National this week.
McIlroy broke down in tears as he ended his jinx to claim the green jacket after a nerve-wracking final round.
The Northern Irishman and Bryson DeChambeau traded early blows before Justin Rose came from almost nowhere to shoot to the top of the leaderboard.
McIlroy had faltered around the famed Amen Corner and DeChambeau’s challenge faded, setting up a nail-biting play-off back up the 18th hole.
And it was McIlroy who won out with a stunning birdie after putting himself, his fans and pretty much anyone watching through the absolute wringer.
One of those watching on was Scots golfer Robert MacIntyre, a team mate of McIlroy’s at the 2023 Ryder Cup – and he was quick to congratulate him.
MacIntyre went into the Masters as one of the hot outside bets to claim victory at Augusta, ranked 17th in the world and with two PGA Tour wins under his belt in the last 12 months.
But a nightmare first round in which he three-putted from four feet and had to endure his playing partner shooting 18 OVER PAR meant he faced an uphill battle to be a factor going into the weekend.
In the end he missed the cut and the Oban lefty hasn’t said much since that disappointment.
He spoke to the media after his second round and bemoaned his “abysmal” putting.
But he hasn’t commented on his future plans or reflected on the week at large, and has stayed relatively quiet otherwise and – until now.
The Scot sent a poignant show of support to McIlroy after his historic triumph, sharing a photo of the winning moment on his Instagram story.
MacIntyre will look to bounce back at the RBC Heritage next week at Harbour Town Links in South Carolina.
Tiger Woods also congratulated McIlroy after he became just the sixth golfer in history to win all four majors.
He said: “Welcome to the club Rory. Completing the grand slam at Augusta is something special. Your determination during this round, and this entire journey has shown through, and now you’re a part of history. Proud of you!”
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page