Rory McIlroy’s week took a surprising turn as the golfer filed for divorce from his wife Erica Stoll in Florida on Monday. This news comes just days before he defends his PGA Championship title at Valhalla Golf Club, where he won his fourth major in 2014.
Court records confirmed the “petition for dissolution of marriage” submission, marking the end of their seven-year marriage. The couple, who married in 2017, share a daughter, Poppy Kennedy McIlroy, born in 2020.
A spokesperson for McIlroy acknowledged the split, emphasizing “Rory’s desire to ensure this difficult time is as respectful and amicable as possible.”
Their love story began at the 2012 Ryder Cup when Erica, then working for the PGA of America, helped McIlroy secure a police escort after a scheduling mishap. This timely intervention allowed him to reach the course on time and contribute to Europe’s dramatic comeback victory, known as the “Miracle at Medinah.”
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time McIlroy has found success amidst personal challenges. In 2014, he won the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth just a week after his split from fiancée Caroline Wozniacki.
The 35-year-old golfer is scheduled for a press conference today ahead of the PGA Championship. All eyes will be on McIlroy as he attempts to defend his title and potentially add to his major championship tally, even amid this unexpected development in his personal life
