Rory McIlroy shows his true character with emotional defence of ‘best friend’

Rory McIlroy Honors Caddie Harry Diamond After Historic DP World Tour Championship Win

Rory McIlroy delivered a heartfelt tribute to his caddie and close friend, Harry Diamond, after securing a monumental victory at the DP World Tour Championship and clinching the Race to Dubai title on Sunday. The triumph marked a significant milestone for McIlroy, who matched the legendary Seve Ballesteros with six career Order of Merit titles, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest golfers of his generation.

The emotional victory at the Earth Course was hard-fought, with McIlroy battling rising star Rasmus Hojgaard in a tense final round. A masterclass in clutch play, particularly on the closing holes, ensured McIlroy triumphed by two strokes. It was a redemptive moment for the Northern Irishman, whose season has been marred by near-misses at the US Open, Irish Open, and BMW PGA Championship.

Throughout McIlroy’s challenging year, his caddie, Harry Diamond, has often borne the brunt of public criticism. Yet, on this special day, McIlroy stood firmly by his lifelong friend and caddie, using the moment to praise Diamond’s unwavering support and skill. Addressing the crowd on the 18th green as he held his trophies, McIlroy’s voice brimmed with emotion.

“He gets his fair share of stick, and it’s not warranted. He’s an amazing caddie and the best friend I could ever ask for,” McIlroy said, visibly moved.

Criticism and Resilience

The victory also served as a rebuttal to critics who have questioned Diamond’s competence in high-pressure moments. Notable detractors, including Tiger Woods’ former coach Hank Haney and Golf Channel analyst Smylie Kauffman, have previously scrutinized Diamond’s role in McIlroy’s failure to secure a fifth major title, a drought that now spans a decade.

Haney was particularly vocal following McIlroy’s collapse at the US Open in June, where he squandered a two-shot lead over Bryson DeChambeau in the final stretch at Pinehurst No. 2. A series of costly mistakes off the tee and on the greens led to his downfall, and Diamond was quickly singled out. Haney claimed that a more experienced caddie, such as Steve Williams (who famously worked with Woods), could have prevented McIlroy’s errors.

“If Steve Williams was Rory’s caddie, I can promise you he would have never hit a perfect flighted 7-iron that rolled over the green on 15 into a terrible lie because he would have hit an 8-iron, sent it straight up in the air, and held the green. Wrong club, wrong shot, bad plan,” Haney said.

Kauffman echoed this sentiment, questioning Diamond’s influence during pivotal moments. But McIlroy was quick to defend his friend at the time, dismissing the critiques as unfounded and irrelevant.

“It’s certainly unfair,” McIlroy said earlier this year. “Hank Haney has never been in that position. Smylie has been in that position once. Just because Harry is not as vocal or loud with his words as other caddies, it doesn’t mean that he doesn’t say anything or that he doesn’t do anything.”

McIlroy added a pointed remark to his critics: “Someone said to me once, if you would never take advice from these people, you should never take their criticisms, either. I certainly wouldn’t go to Hank Haney for advice. I love Smylie, but I think I know what I’m doing, and so does Harry.”

Vindication in Dubai

Sunday’s victory provided the ultimate validation for McIlroy’s loyalty to Diamond. With poise and precision, McIlroy navigated the demanding Earth Course, making smart decisions under pressure and showcasing the kind of composure that had eluded him in past close calls. The win marked his fourth title of the season, a testament to the hard work and resilience he and Diamond have demonstrated throughout the year.

As McIlroy looks ahead to 2025, the focus now shifts to breaking his decade-long major championship drought. Buoyed by his exceptional form and unwavering partnership with Diamond, McIlroy is undoubtedly poised to chase his fifth major title with renewed confidence.

For McIlroy, the victory in Dubai was more than just another trophy—it was a moment to honor the bond and trust shared with the man who has been by his side through triumphs and tribulations alike. The win not only silenced critics but also highlighted the profound friendship that has anchored McIlroy’s remarkable career.