India, April 13 -- Rory McIlroy is on the verge of securing back-to-back Masters wins. The 36-year-old was at 13 under and holds a two-shot lead over Scottie Scheffler and Justin Rose with two holes left to play. However, more than his skill on the course, it was the Northern Irishman's family and dog headcover that became the talk amongst spectators and fans. All of it has a very close connection to McIlroy, who recently spoke about his wife Erica Stoll and daughter Poppy playing a central role in his journey at Augusta National.

After years of near-misses at Augusta, McIlroy appeared more grounded, crediting fatherhood and family life for reshaping his mindset both on and off the course. Reflecting on his daughter during a recent press...