Rory McIlroy is revelling in a newfound sense of freedom after his stunning Masters triumph last month finally completed his career Grand Slam.
The Northern Irishman has spoken candidly about the weight that has been lifted from his shoulders.
After years of pressure and expectation, McIlroy has at last captured the one major that had eluded him.
The victory at Augusta National marked the culmination of a childhood dream and has fundamentally altered his approach to the game.
Rory McIlroy has admitted that he cannot watch back his Masters triumph without getting emotional
GETTYWith the "burden" of chasing a career Grand Slam now lifted, McIlroy believes any further success is simply a bonus.
"It's everything I thought it would be," McIlroy said of his Masters victory. "I'm not sure if any other win will live up to what happened a few weeks ago."
The champion has deliberately limited how much footage he watches of his triumph.
"I've tried not to watch it a lot because I want to remember the feelings," he explained.
When he does revisit the moment, the emotion remains overwhelming.
"Anytime I have, I well up. I still feel like I want to cry," McIlroy admitted.
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"It was an involuntary reaction - I've never felt a release like that before, and I might never feel a release like that again. That could be a once-in-a-lifetime thing.
"I've achieved what I've wanted. I've done everything I've wanted to do in the game.
"I dreamed as a child of becoming the best player in the world and winning all the majors.
"I've done that, so everything beyond this, for however long I decide to play the game competitively, is a bonus.
Rory McIlroy won The Masters last month in emotional circumstances
Reuters"I think everyone saw how hard having a 'North Star' [ambition] is and being able to get it over the line.
"I don't want to burden myself by numbers or statistics... I just want to go and try to play the best golf I can."
Despite his relaxed approach, many are tipping McIlroy to make it two major victories in a row at this week's PGA Championship.
The tournament is being held at Quail Hollow, a course where McIlroy has triumphed four times previously.
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"I have obviously great memories from this place - my first win on the PGA Tour 15 years ago and winning last year," McIlroy said.
The familiar surroundings have bolstered his confidence.
"I got out on the golf course yesterday and it felt no different than last year at the Wells Fargo."
He noted the course setup remains largely unchanged despite hosting a major championship.
"It's just a matter of stepping up and hitting the golf shots when the gun goes on Thursday."
