The 11-year chase is finally complete − and it took a playoff.

USA Today reports Rory McIlroy emerged victorious at Augusta National as the winner of the 89th Masters tournament, capturing the one major that eluded him and putting himself in golf immortality. McIlroy was in a showdown with Justin Rose, with both tied at 11-under par, and only needed one playoff hole to win. McIlroy finished with a 1-over 73 before it went to the playoff.

It was as dramatic as an ending could be at Augusta National on April 13. McIlroy headed into the final hole with a one-shot lead but couldn’t save par and it came down to a playoff between McIlroy and Rose, who shot a final-round 66.

“There were points in my career where I didn’t know if I would have this nice garment over my shoulders,” McIlroy said, that Masters green jacket looking like a perfect fit. “But I didn’t make it easy today. I certainly didn’t make it easy. I was nervous.

“It was one of the toughest days I’ve ever had on the golf course.”

The reward was greater than he imagined, and it showed. He rapped in that final putt, raised both arms in the air and let the putter fall behind him. He covered his head, dropped to his knees, and before long his forehead was on the green as his chest heaved with emotion.