PITCH PERFECT
McIlroy is a big Manchester United fan. After winning The Open at Hoylake in 2014, he was invited by the club to parade the Claret Jug at Old Trafford during half time in the Premier League match against Swansea.
AMATEUR HOUR
As a 17-year-old amateur, McIlroy was good enough to make the cut in the Dubai Desert Classic, finishing tied for 52nd. Had he been a professional, McIlroy would have won almost €8,000. He made the switch later that year off a +6 handicap.
FINISHING SCHOOL
McIlroy was introduced to the game by his father, Gerry, himself a scratch golfer. Gerry emphasised the importance of holding the finish position, one of McIlroy’s iconic features.
PET NAMES
Rory named his first dog Theo, after a multiple-Major-winning golfer. Can you…