Report: What Rory McIlroy said about Tiger Woods at Masters Champions Dinner

Rory McIlroy reportedly "kept it brief" and said "all the right things" as he paid tribute to the absent Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson during the 2026 Masters Champions Dinner, according to a report. 

Dinner was served in the Northern Irishman's honour on Tuesday evening of the first men's major of the year at Augusta National. 

It was the first time McIlroy had ever attended the most exclusive dinner in golf, 12 months after sealing the career grand slam with an enthralling playoff victory over his Ryder Cup teammate Justin Rose. 

McIlroy told reporters on Tuesday afternoon in his pre-tournament press conference that he was extremely nervous about giving a speech and gave it more thought than the food. 

"I want to say the right things and make sure I get my feelings across of how grateful I am to be a part of that group," McIlroy explained, who also joked that he didn't make the dinner more Irish because he wanted to enjoy it. 

"I'll follow Ben Crenshaw's lead," added McIlroy. "I know he'll direct the run of show a little bit."

McIlroy was right, according to a report by Golfweek. 

Gentle Ben began the evening by telling McIlroy that he took everyone on a "toboggan ride" 12 months ago and his approach into No. 15 was one of the best shots ever hit on the hole. 

Crenshaw reportedly asked 18-time major winner six-time Masters champion, Jack Nicklaus, to say a few remarks. 

The Golden Bear "had everyone laughing" with his tale about the first time he met a bushy-haired McIlroy, according to Tommy Aaron.

When the time came, McIlroy delivered his speech. 

"Rory said all the right things," Charles Coody, the 1971 Masters winner, told Golfweek.

"He didn't get emotional, but he gave a great welcome speech about how much he appreciates being here."

Of course, Woods and Phil Mickelson were absent. 

Woods, 50, is sitting out the 2026 Masters Tournament following another car crash 27 March.

He was arrested on charges of driving under the influence, property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.

Plenty of Masters hopefuls have been asked about his absence and former world number one, Jason Day, appeared to be the only one willing to criticise Woods.

The 15-time major champion has submitted a not guilty plea through his lawyers, but has reportedly travelled to Switzerland to seek treatment. 

"I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in," Woods said last week, confirming that he was not going to make his 27th Masters appearance. 

It was the first dinner he missed since the 2021 Masters. 

Mickelson has also been reduced to just one appearance in the LIV Golf League this year due to a private family health matter. 

Lefty, who won the 2004, 2006 and 2010 Masters, has not revealed when he will be back in action. 

When asked what McIlroy said about their absence, Aaron told Golfweek: "Rory kept it brief. He said that we miss Tiger and that he has to do whatever he has to do to take care of himself."

McIlroy will get the defence of his Masters underway at 15:31 BST tomorrow. 

As tradition dictates, McIlroy is playing alongside the reigning US Amateur champion, Mason Howell. Players Championship winner, Cameron Young, is also in their group.

The trio are in the early-late half of the draw and will tee off at 18:44 on Friday. 

Only three players (Nicklaus, Woods and Sir Nick Faldo) have defended the Masters title. 

World number one Scottie Scheffler is attempting to win his third green jacket will play the first two rounds alongside Scotland's Robert MacIntyre and former US Open champion Gary Woodland. 

Bryson DeChambeau, who hopes to continue his professional rivalry with McIlroy, is paired with Matthew Fitzpatrick and Xander Schauffele.