Rory McIlroy clarifies claims surrounding Erica Stoll after Masters win

Rory McIlroy has responded to speculation after his wife Erica Stoll was missing from his celebrations in Belfast after he won The Masters earlier this month

Rory McIlroy and wife Erica Stoll seem happier than ever(Image: PGA TOUR)

Rory McIlroy has set the record straight, confirming that his wife Erica Stoll was indeed with him during his celebratory trip to Belfast following his Masters victory, despite speculation suggesting otherwise.

The 35-year-old golfer achieved the pinnacle of his career by securing the coveted green jacket after a playoff win against Justin Rose at Augusta earlier this month. This victory marked the end of an 11-year Major drought and catapulted McIlroy into an exclusive club of six players who have won all four of golf’s most prestigious titles, joining the ranks of Tiger Woods, Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, and Jack Nicklaus.

McIlroy flew to Northern Ireland shortly after, sparking questions about Stoll’s absence as she was not seen with him and their daughter when they disembarked from his private jet at Belfast City airport.

However, McIlroy has now confirmed that Erica was indeed part of the trip, which began with a stop in London before they journeyed to Belfast with their four year old daughter Poppy. He made the trip to visit his parents, who were unable to witness his Masters triumph in person.

Reflecting on his incredible achievement, he said: “It’s been an amazing few days after and to be able to reflect on it and everything that happened and the magnitude of everything. The big thing for me is how the whole journey is how it resonated with people. It’s not every day you get to fulfil one of your lifelong goals and dreams.

“We first went to London with Erica and Poppy to see our new home that we’re building and we made the trip over to Belfast to see a few other people that are important to us. Just to be with them, to be with Erica and Poppy and my mum and dad.

Rory McIlroy, wife Erica Stoll and daughter Poppy celebrate his Masters win(Image: AP)

“To see Michael Bannon my lifelong coach and spend a bit more time with Harry (Diamond) and his wife. Celebrate with the people that have been part of this whole thing for my entire career was absolutely amazing. As you can hear, I picked up a bit of a cold on the way, so I’m feeling a little bit under the weather. Obviously, it’s been an amazing few days.”

McIlroy has been wedded to Stoll since 2017 and they welcomed their daughter Poppy in 2020. However, last year, the couple announced their intention to divorce, only to later reconcile and halt the divorce proceedings.

Stoll was a constant presence at the Masters this year, kissing the Ulsterman after he secured his first Green Jacket and was with him all during the Par 3 contest.