Rory McIlroy’s Golf Bucket List: Courses He Still Wants to Play | Golf.com

Juno Beach, Florida – Rory McIlroy’s impressive run of access to elite golf courses continues, highlighted by a recent victory alongside his father, Gerry, at the Seminole Pro-Member tournament. The win, secured with a nine-under 63, came just days after McIlroy was forced to withdraw from the Arnold Palmer Invitational due to a balky back, a reminder that even the world’s top golfers aren’t immune to the physical demands of the sport.

The Seminole Pro-Member, a notoriously exclusive event, saw McIlroy and his father finish two strokes ahead of Rickie Fowler and Buddy Marucci. It marks McIlroy’s second triumph at the event, having previously won in 2015 with John Pinkham. Gerry McIlroy, visibly pleased, acknowledged Rory’s pivotal role in their success. “We shot a back-nine 29. I think I helped on one hole. What was I going to do?” he said, playfully deferring to his son’s skill.

The victory at Seminole adds another layer to a career already defined by access. McIlroy’s standing in the game affords him opportunities most golfers only dream of. He holds a lifetime invitation to Augusta National, earned through his Masters Tournament win last year, and enjoys uncomplicated access to Seminole, thanks to his father’s membership. He’s likewise a member at The Bear’s Club in Florida, Queenwood Golf Club outside London, and the R&A.

Despite this enviable position, McIlroy, like all golfers, maintains a “bucket list” of courses he’s yet to experience. In a recent interview with Kevin Van Valkenburg of The Fried Egg, McIlroy revealed several courses high on his list. New South Wales Golf Club in Australia, recently ranked 46th on GOLF’s Top 100 Courses in the World after a significant renovation, caught his eye. “I haven’t been there,” McIlroy said. “That looks really cool.”

His list extends to Fishers Island Club, a famously private Seth Raynor design, and several American venues he’s yet to visit, including Chicago Golf Club and Pasatiempo Golf Club. Even closer to home, in Ireland, Waterville Golf Links remains unplayed. “I haven’t played. I would love to play there,” he admitted.

The desire to experience these courses stems from a simple longing for the pure enjoyment of the game. Although McIlroy’s professional life is filled with appearances at world-class venues like Pebble Beach, Harbour Town, and Riviera, the opportunity to play golf purely for fun remains a motivating factor. He recalled a previous trip to Tara Iti Golf Club in New Zealand as an example of this freewheeling approach.

Notably absent from his list, and perhaps surprisingly, is Bandon Dunes. “I’d love to move to Bandon and do that,” McIlroy stated, indicating a future trip to the renowned Oregon destination is on his radar.

The Seminole Pro-Member victory, and the accompanying recognition with a spot on the club’s champions wall, holds particular significance for the McIlroy family. Bob Ford, the longtime head professional at Seminole, noted the importance of the moment, stating that “Finishing off the Grand Slam at Augusta National last year was nothing compared to getting paint with his dad.”

Gerry McIlroy’s membership at Seminole has clearly facilitated opportunities for his son, and Rory has even jokingly suggested he should be granted membership himself, given that he covers his father’s dues. This playful dynamic underscores the close bond between father and son, a bond that culminated in a memorable victory at one of golf’s most exclusive clubs. The win serves as a reminder that even for a golfer with McIlroy’s access and achievements, some moments – like sharing a victory with family – are particularly special.

The Seminole Pro-Member tournament, often referred to as the “first major of the year” by Davis Love III, continues to attract a star-studded field, solidifying its reputation as a premier event on the golf calendar. The invitation-only nature of the tournament ensures a competitive and exclusive atmosphere, making McIlroy and Gerry’s victory all the more impressive.