Rory McIlroy tasted “a rather cool year” after adding his second Irish open title to the Masters victory.
World No. 2 added it by completing his career grand slam in an April victory at Augusta and winning his second home open with a thrilling playoff victory over Joakimura Glenn.
McIlroy had to eagle hole 72 just to reach the playoffs after Lagergren’s own stunning Eagle on the 16th.
After the first two extra holes were tied to the birdie four, Lagergren discovers the water danger for the third time so McIlroy can win with two putts.
“I feel lucky enough to do this in front of these people. The support has been fantastic all week,” said McIlroy, who won the event at the same venue in 2016.
“I had a putt last year (Royal County Down) and forced a playoff against Rasmus (Hodgegard) but I just missed it on the high side so it felt like (Eagle on the 18th) was a bit red.
“I wanted to be offensive with it, that cool feeling, the cool moments that it gets in, and that gave me a chance in the playoffs.
“I felt that who would flash first. Joakim hit a poor second shot in that playoff hole, which opened the door for me.
At the Ryder Cup that will be coming to Bethpage later this month, McIlroy said:
“But we’re not finished yet. We had a big week at Wentworth (BMW PGA Championship) next week, and obviously everyone is looking forward to the Ryder Cup.”
McIlroy and Lagergren were in a five-way tie for the lead at 14 under when the final group was turned to the house on Sunday.
Angel Hidalgo finished third with Rafa Cabrera Bello in third place with 15 in his second time after a stunning 63 on Saturday.
The third Spaniard, Angel Ayora, was fifth in line with third round leader Adrian Sadia.
