Rory McIlroy has revealed he received a note from disgraced former Masters champion Angel Cabrera wishing him luck prior to his sensational Masters victory on Sunday night.
The 35-year-old was able to stave off Justin Rose to achieve the career Grand Slam, becoming just the sixth golf star in history to do so.
Back in 2011, McIlroy came agonisingly close to achieving glory at the same course.
He dramatically collapsed, however, with Cabrera his playing partner that day.
Rory McIlroy has revealed he received a note from disgraced former Masters champion Angel Cabrera wishing him luck prior to his sensational Masters victory on Sunday night
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The Spaniard has since spent time in prison due to crimes against women, with Masters chiefs forced to defend their decision to invite him to Augusta this spring.
McIlroy has now revealed that Cabrera left him a note in his locker wishing him luck as he prepares for Sunday's day of play.
"You know, since 2011, I think it's so ironic, as well," he said.
"I got to my locker this morning and I opened it up, and there was a note in there from Angel Cabrera, and just wishing me luck.
"And Angel Cabrera was the player I played with on the final day in 2011, it was a nice touch and a little bit ironic at the same time.
"It's been 14 long years, but thankfully I got the job done."
Cabrera missed the cut at the Masters this year after making his comeback to the sport.
He previously won the Green Jacket back in 2009 but hadn't played golf since 2019 due to his issues away from the course.
READ MORE: Rory McIlroy calls out Tiger Woods and three other golf legends after securing Masters glory
Angel Cabrera previously won the Masters back in 2013 and partnered Rory McIlroy at Augusta in 2011
GETTYMeanwhile, golf figures of the past have rushed to congratulate McIlroy on his remarkable win.
Sky Sports' Paul McGinley said: "It is good for the game to have another Grand Slam champion but there is also the human element of resilience and bouncing back.
"He has been battered at times in the last 11 years, letting opportunities slip, and today was a microcosm of those last 11 years, falling down and getting back up, falling down and getting back up.
"He did it four times today and that takes so much energy, so I am full of admiration for him showing so much strength. That human story."
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Sir Nick Faldo added: "We have seen the most amazing piece of history ever. We are honoured to have been here to see it.
"When Tiger Woods won here in 2019 I said that scene would never be topped but I was wrong. This tops it.
"For a man to do that after what he went through for 11 years - Rory is a legend now. He is 35 years old and a legend. How about that?!
"It is a remarkable achievement."
Rory McIlroy is a man on top of the world following his remarkable win at the Masters
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And Tiger Woods reacted by saying on X: "Welcome to the club @McIlroyRory. Completing the grand slam at Augusta is something special.
"Your determination during this round, and this entire journey has shown through, and now you’re a part of history. Proud of you!"
