Rory McIlroy makes strange wedding ring decision at US Open despite divorce U-turn

In a surprising turn of events, Rory McIlroy, the world’s third-ranked golfer, was seen practicing for the US Open without his wedding ring on Wednesday. This development comes amidst a turbulent period in his personal life, as McIlroy recently filed for divorce from his longtime wife, Erica Stoll, citing an “irretrievably broken” marriage. However, McIlroy voluntarily dismissed the case on Tuesday, adding another layer of complexity to their ongoing saga.

McIlroy addressed the public speculation surrounding his marriage in a statement to The Guardian, expressing his discontent with the relentless rumors. “Responding to each rumor is a fool’s game,” he stated. “Over the past weeks, Erica and I have realized that our best future was as a family together. Thankfully, we have resolved our differences and look forward to a new beginning.”

The couple’s relationship had appeared strained for some time. On May 16, a day before McIlroy’s attorney initially filed for divorce, both he and Stoll were seen without their wedding rings. McIlroy was competing at the PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club, while Stoll was on an outing in Jupiter, Florida.

Throughout the divorce process, McIlroy expressed a commitment to maintaining a respectful and amicable relationship with Stoll, highlighting his desire for joint parental custody of their three-year-old daughter, Poppy.

McIlroy and Stoll’s relationship began over a decade ago through their shared passion for golf. Stoll, who worked for the PGA of America, played a key role in helping McIlroy make his tee time at the 2012 Ryder Cup. Their connection started as a platonic friendship, especially since McIlroy had recently ended a high-profile relationship with tennis star Caroline Wozniacki. However, by the end of 2014, McIlroy and Stoll were publicly involved with each other.

In a 2019 interview with NBC Sports, McIlroy reminisced about their initial meeting, saying, “Erica that week was always the one that was checking us in and out. She was there at transportation, so she was always in the car park over there (by the clubhouse). But yeah, it’s still cool to look around and think about that week, and obviously everything that’s happened since then. It’s pretty cool.”

The couple tied the knot along Ireland’s picturesque Atlantic coast in a star-studded ceremony attended by notable guests, including Stevie Wonder and Jamie Dornan. Since their wedding, McIlroy and Stoll have maintained a relatively private and seemingly happy public image. Stoll even used her golf expertise to caddy for McIlroy at the 2023 Masters Par 3 contest.

The backdrop of this public divorce drama adds tension to a critical weekend of golf for McIlroy, who is vying for his fifth major title, his first in over a decade. Despite the long wait for another major win, McIlroy remains one of golf’s most consistent performers. He has expressed satisfaction with his career achievements and remains optimistic about his chances of securing an elusive major title.

“I’m really proud of my body of work over the past 15 years and everything that I have achieved, whether it be season-long titles or individual tournaments or majors,” McIlroy shared. “I’m more confident than ever that I’m right there, that I’m as close as I’ve ever been.”

As McIlroy navigates this challenging period in his personal life, he continues to focus on his professional ambitions, hoping to add another major trophy to his impressive collection.