Rory McIlroy’s palpable sense of buoyancy in the lead up to this week’s American Open at Pinehurst might now be understood in a new light with the news that, last month, he decided to withdraw his divorce application submitted to a US court in Florida.
The renowned golfing pro has, in fact, reconciled with his spouse Erica, whom he has been married to for a seven-year duration. This turn of events will most certainly bring a significant enhancement to McIlroy’s mental fortitude.
In the immediate countdown to the much-awaited US PGA Championship, surprising rumours broke out revealing McIlroy’s plans for a divorce. Yet documents submitted to a Floridian court on Tuesday indicate that the case is now dismissed with the unanimous consent of all involved parties. Earlier the same day, McIlroy’s outlook was visibly upbeat when he faced the press at Pinehurst.
When asked to comment on the divorce and the resulting heated hearsay regarding his personal life that had been circulating in the period between the last two majors, McIlroy stated, “Regrettably, there have been some unfounded speculations about my personal life of late. Bothering to respond to each individual rumour is, in my opinion, futile.
“In recent weeks, Erica and I recognised that we are happiest as a united family. We have thankfully ironed out our misunderstandings and look forward to a fresh start.”
Arriving in North Carolina yearning to claim a fifth Major, McIlroy is set to join forces with Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele in the opening two rounds, a victory that has been elusive since August 2014.
“I take immense pride in my achievements over the last 15 years, from season-long titles to individual tournaments, and of course, the Majors,” McIlroy declared.
“Although clinching a fifth major has been a long time coming, I feel more assured than ever before that my victory is right around the corner. Indeed, I have never felt closer.”