The Masters Tournament's first-round viewership dropped by 28% this year without Tiger Woods, with Rory McIlroy's victory being a memorable sports moment. McIlroy's win, completing the career grand slam, was touching but detrimental to the Masters' viewership, which has historically relied on Woods as a draw.
Woods' absence impacted the tournament's ratings, highlighting the need for a compelling storyline to engage viewers. McIlroy's pursuit of the green jacket had garnered interest, culminating in his victory, but the question now arises about the future intrigue of the Masters without Woods or a similar captivating figure in the golfing world.