Rory McIlroy admits he was a ‘mess’ on Belfast homecoming as he saw his parents
Rory McIlroy’s victory at Augusta last month, securing the Masters and his career grand slam of all four golf majors, was a moment for the world to see. However, it was the private celebrations with his nearest and dearest that held the most meaning.
After his major win, McIlroy opted for a low-key week, visiting both England to check on his house under construction and his home turf in Northern Ireland. Landing at George Best Belfast City airport just days post-victory, Rory shared an emotional reunion with his mother Rosie, admitting they were “both a mess for a few minutes” as they reconnected on home ground.
Speaking in the US ahead of the Truist Championship, McIlroy expressed his desire for privacy: “I didn’t want any fanfare, I tried to keep it as private as possible,” he said on Wednesday afternoon.
The champion golfer cherished the time spent with family: “I just wanted to see my parents and the people that were closest to me. And we had a really nice two days. It was, you know, with my dad, like, I never get that emotional with my dad. It was great, it was great to see him.”
The emotional impact of seeing his mother was profound: “But then, you know, when I saw my mum we were both a mess for a few minutes. As an only child, I have a bond. I’m lucky and I know a lot of people feel this, that they have a close bond with their parents.
