India, April 13 -- Rory McIlroy has etched his name into Masters history, successfully defending his title at Augusta National after a tense but controlled finish on Sunday. The Northern Irishman sealed the win in dramatic fashion, navigating a tricky closing stretch before calmly finishing the job on the green. The 36-year-old's victory places him among an elite group, becoming just the fourth player to win back-to-back Masters titles.

The closing moments weren't without tension. McIlroy's approach found a greenside bunker, briefly raising the stakes.

"McIlroy was aiming over the patrons when he hit that shot."

"The contact was good, he looked happy with it but it's ended up in the bunker at the front left of the green."

Despite the ...