The undisputed world number one made a typically unflappable return to action at Pebble Beach and he now moves on to the WM Phoenix Open, where he is a clear favourite to secure a third victory in four years
Kultida Woods had attended her son’s TGL match in Florida last week.
McIlroy finished a shot outside the tournament record set in 2015.
The Austrian rallied with four late birdies for a one-shot lead heading into the final round.
Rory McIlroy eagled the 18th to be six strokes adrift after dropping four shots on his back nine.
The 35-year-old made it from the tee on the par-three 15th hole.
Rumours of a potential move to LIV Golf surfaced around three weeks ago and were confirmed by Rory McIlroy at the recent Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
As well as the Saudi-funded breakaway LIV Golf circuit, the influence of YouTube golf continues to rise alongside the indoor Tomorrow Golf League.
Preference is for men who have featured towards the top of leaderboards already in 2025, with Collin Morikawa of most interest at 14/1.
Woods said the match delivered ‘what we had envisioned’ from the league as his Jupiter Links team edged out Boston Common in overtime.
The result marks English’s first Tour victory since he took out the Travelers Championship in 2021.
