Rory McIlroy has yet to publicly address his divorce from wife Erica Stoll, but his spokesperson has conveyed their desire to handle the split amicably. In a statement to The Irish Star, McIlroy’s publicist confirmed the divorce filing and emphasized McIlroy’s wish to navigate this challenging period respectfully. The 26-time PGA Tour winner has declined to comment further on his personal life during recent press conferences, as reported by The Irish Star.
McIlroy, one of the most successful professional golfers, has a net worth of $170 million, which could complicate the divorce proceedings if they go to court. Celebrity divorces often become costly and contentious, particularly for the higher-earning party. To ensure he is well-represented, McIlroy has retained divorce lawyer Thomas Sasser, who previously handled Tiger Woods’ divorce. It’s unclear who will represent Stoll, but the existence of a prenuptial agreement might influence the court’s decisions.
Regarding their daughter Poppy, McIlroy seeks joint custody and has proposed a parenting plan that ensures frequent contact with both parents and shared financial responsibility for Poppy’s needs. Specific details about Stoll’s contribution or potential alimony payments remain undisclosed. McIlroy has referenced their prenuptial agreement, asserting its validity and enforceability, while opting not to disclose its contents to protect their privacy.
The couple’s primary residence is in Florida, a state that doesn’t adhere to community property laws, meaning Stoll isn’t automatically entitled to half of McIlroy’s earnings during their marriage. However, a judge could potentially rule otherwise. McIlroy reportedly earned over $110 million during their seven-year marriage, and if the prenup is invalidated, Stoll could receive a substantial settlement. McIlroy’s choice of Sasser, known for prioritizing client privacy, mirrors Tiger Woods’ strategy during his high-profile divorce, where Woods’ ex-wife, Elin Nordegren, received a $100 million payout despite initial reports suggesting a larger settlement.