Rory McIlroy has once again put himself right in the middle of the conversation at Augusta National, delivering two solid opening rounds at the Masters that have kept fans and fellow players watching closely.
Through the first 36 holes, McIlroy has shown flashes of the form that has made him one of the most exciting talents in golf, mixing aggressive shot-making with moments of patience as he navigates one of the sport’s toughest stages.
So, will McIlroy go back to back? If he can pull off a feat only accomplished by three other players (Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, and Tiger Woods) before him, there’s one big question looming for golf fans around the globe: Who would present him with his green jacket?
Traditionally, the winner of the year prior puts the green jacket on the current year’s champion. In 2025, Scottie Scheffler, who won the Masters in 2024, presented McIlroy with his green jacket. According to Sport Bible, the iconic moment will be carried out by Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament, Fred Ridley.
Fred Ridley Has Been the Chairman of Augusta Nation Since 2017
Ridley is one of the most influential figures in golf today, serving as chairman of Augusta National Golf Club and The Masters Tournament. A former amateur standout and U.S. Amateur champion, Ridley’s connection to the game goes back decades, long before he took on one of the sport’s most powerful leadership roles.
As chairman—a position he’s held since 2017—Ridley has overseen several key changes at Augusta National, including efforts to modernize the course while preserving its tradition, as well as initiatives to grow the game globally. Despite the prestige of his position, he is known for maintaining a low profile, often letting the tournament and the course itself take center stage rather than seeking the spotlight.
Ridley’s background as a competitor gives him a unique perspective on the game. He previously competed at the highest amateur level and even served as president of the United States Golf Association.
Each year at The Masters, Ridley plays a central role in upholding the tournament’s most iconic traditions, including the presentation of the coveted green jacket.
Rory McIlroy May Be More Relaxed Since He Won the Masters in 2025
While he hasn’t been perfect, McIlroy has managed to stay firmly in contention, responding well to pressure. At Augusta, where momentum can shift in an instant, that kind of position is exactly where players want to be.
There’s also a sense of familiarity in the air. McIlroy won his first Masters in 2025, which may contribute to taking some of the pressure off him this year.
Of course, McIlroy has been here before—close enough to taste a Masters breakthrough, only to see it slip away on Sunday. That history adds another layer to every shot, every putt, and every decision he makes as the tournament unfolds.
If Rory McIlroy Wins Masters Again, Who Gives Him the Green Jacket?