Rory McIlroy to Headline the Australian Open
Golfer Rory McIlroy, winner of five majors and holder of the career Grand Slam, will lead the Australian Open in its men’s edition. The tournament will be held in Melbourne for the next two years.
Royal Melbourne, located in the Melbourne Sandbelt, will host the tournament from December 4th to 7th. Kingston Heath, also in Melbourne, will host the event in 2026.
McIlroy’s return to Australia comes after his historic victory at the 2025 Masters Tournament, where he completed the career Grand Slam. The world number 2 has committed to participate in the next two editions of the tournament.
The last time the 35-year-old golfer competed in the Australian Open was in 2014, the year he defended the Stonehaven Cup. In 2013, McIlroy faced Adam Scott, and was ultimately crowned champion.
I am proud to commit to the Australian Open for the next two years, especially as it will be played at the Melbourne Sandbelt, a place where I have always wanted to play professionally.
Rory McIlroy
McIlroy also highlighted the importance of the Australian Open for world golf, expressing his confidence in the success of the event, especially as it is held in a world-renowned sporting city and at two of the best golf courses in the world: Royal Melbourne Golf Club and Kingston Heath Golf Club.
James Sutherland, Golf Australia chief executive, said the Northern Irish golfer’s participation will elevate the tournament’s status.
Rory McIlroy, one of the best players in history, competing in the world-famous Melbourne Sandbelt, is a tempting proposition for golf fans.
James Sutherland
Sutherland added that they are committed to elevating the status of their national championship, and this announcement is a significant step in that direction.
The Australian Open moves away from its previous combined format. The dates and location of the Women’s Australian Open and the All Abilities Australian Championship will be confirmed at a later date.
Sutherland concluded by saying that they are confident that the revised format, with individual events for men, women, and all abilities, will give each event its own platform to showcase the incredible talent in golf.
