Golfing star's profile – Rory McIlroy

He’s one of the biggest names in golf, but how much do you know about Rory McIlroy? From his golfing achievements to his sports style, here’s all you need to know about the golfing star…

Who is Rory McIlroy?
Rory McIlroy is a Northern Irish professional golfer and four-time major champion, best known for his strong performance in the Official World Golf Rankings.

Where did he come from?
McIlroy grew up in County Down, Northern Ireland, and was introduced to golf by his father, Gerry McIlroy, who would regularly take him to play on Holywood Golf Course.

Rumour has it that when McIlroy was little, he was gifted a golf club by a family member. His dad taught him the right way to grip the club and that night, he took the club to bed still gripping the club in the right position. Now that’s dedication.

How did he rise to the top?
McIlroy developed his golfing skills quickly from a young age, becoming a member of his home course, the Holywood Golf Club, when he was seven and winning the World Championship for the 9-10 age bracket a few years later.

In 2004, aged 15, McIlroy helped his team to victory in the Junior Ryder Cup, launching his amateur career on an international stage. In 2007, he became the second man to top the World Amateur Golf Ranking, and entered the Walker Cup with the Great Britain and Ireland team, facing Billy Horschel in singles. The same year, McIlroy entered the European Tour at the Dubai Desert Classic, while at the Open Championship, he achieved the Silver Medal as the leading amateur.

What are his key achievements?
McIlroy has had 22 career wins since he turned professional in 2007.

McIlroy won his first Major Championship in 2011 when he snapped up the US Open title ahead of Australian Jason Day. The following year, he won the PGA Championship, and in 2014 took the Claret Jug at The Open Championship and a second PGA CHampionship title.

With awards ranging from PGA Player of the Year to FedEx Cup Champion and the European Tour Golfer of the Year, McIlroy’s had an impressive career so far.

What’s his golfing style?
McIlroy’s come a long way from his mismatched amateur outfit years. Nowadays, he keeps it simple with a streamlined polo and functional golf trousers – fitted with plenty of pockets for scorecards and extra balls. Paired with a plain cap and light, breathable trainers, McIlroy’s look is functional but cool.