Amanda Balionis, Rory McIlroy Interview Turns Heads at the Zurich Classic

Just two weeks ago Rory McIlroy put the finishing touches on his first Masters victory, completing the career grand slam and joining Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods as the only six golfers to ever win all four major titles.

During his victory speech, McIlroy got choked up when thanking his family and his team for their support through the year. "Last, but certainly not least over to my left. My family..." McIlroy started. "They've been on this journey with me the whole way through. They know the burden that I've carried to be able to come here every year and try and try and try again."

To his daughter Poppy, McIlroy sent another heartfelt message.

"The one thing that I would say to my daughter Poppy, who's sitting over there: never give up on your dreams. Never, ever give up on your dreams. Keep coming back, keep working hard, and if you put your mind to it, you can do anything. I love you," he added.

Just a few weeks later, McIlroy is in position to win another tournament. He and partner Shane Lowry carded an 11-under, 61 on April 26 to pull within five shots of the lead at the Zurich Classic. 

Following the round he spoke with longtime CBS Sports golf reporter Amanda Balionis who asked the five-time major champion if this is the most relaxed and happiest he's ever been in his career after finally getting the Masters monkey off of his back.

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"Look, I mean after the last couple of weeks and what happened at Augusta, I think coming here...you know Shane asked me right after the Masters whether I still wanted to play here this week and I said, 'absolutely.' It's such a perfect way to sort of, you know, get back into the swing of things."

Being here with my man and trying to defend a title is pretty cool. But yeah, no, we have a lot of fun out there and obviously that was a great way to finish," he said of the duo's third round.

Related: Rory McIlroy, Wife Make Telling Decision After the Masters