Amanda Balionis set for Rory McIlroy reunion after wife joins him at tournament

CBS golf reporter Amanda Balionis is eagerly preparing for her trip to Scotland for the 2024 Genesis Scottish Open. She is set to cover the final two days of the tournament for CBS Sports, where Rory McIlroy will be making his return after a recent break from the sport.

Balionis shared her excitement on Instagram, posting a picture in chic tan Alo leisurewear and holding her stamped passport, with the caption, “See ya soon North Berwick,” and a heart emoji. The Genesis Scottish Open, scheduled from July 11 to 14, promises a thrilling weekend of golf.

Balionis will be conducting interviews with top players and potential champions. McIlroy, playing for the first time since his US Open disappointment, was seen being supported by his wife Erica Stoll on Thursday. He hopes to be in contention for the championship by the end of the four-day event.

This tournament marks Balionis’ first encounter with McIlroy since their last meeting at the RBC Canadian Open in June. This previous interaction came shortly after McIlroy’s highly publicized split from Stoll the previous month. Rumors of a possible fling between Balionis and McIlroy gained traction, particularly since Balionis, married to ex-NFL quarterback Bryn Renner, was spotted without her wedding ring.

Speculation increased after an interview at the Wells Fargo Championship, where fans noted the playful exchanges between Balionis and McIlroy. This added fuel to the rumors of a potential romantic link between the two.

Despite the gossip, it became known that McIlroy had filed for divorce from Stoll, citing an irreparable marriage. However, by June, the couple had reconciled, with McIlroy addressing the persistent rumors about his private life.

“There have been rumors about my personal life recently, which is unfortunate. Responding to each rumor is a fool’s game,” McIlroy stated. “Over the past weeks, Erica and I have realized that our best future is as a family together. Thankfully, we have resolved our differences and look forward to a new beginning.”

McIlroy and Stoll have since presented a united front, with Stoll cheering him on at the tournament’s commencement. This marks her return to the golf scene following their near-divorce.

McIlroy finished his first round tied for eighth place, with a score of five under par. Despite the early stages of the competition, his performance signaled a comeback from his challenging experience at the 2024 U.S. Open, where he narrowly missed out on victory to Bryson DeChambeau, due to critical missed putts on the 16th and 18th holes.

As the Genesis Scottish Open unfolds, all eyes will be on McIlroy’s performance and Balionis’ coverage, amidst the backdrop of ongoing rumors and personal resolutions.