Erica Stoll made a statement without saying a word at last year’s Scottish Open, her presence signaling a strong character just weeks after she and Rory McIlroy reversed their decision to divorce.
The celebrated PGA Tour pro and his spouse stunned the golf community when they announced their intention to divorce last May. The couple tied the knot in April 2017, exchanging vows at the grand Ashford Castle in Ireland, following a whirlwind three-year romance.
Their marriage, however, teetered on uncertainty just before the 2024 PGA Championship, as divorce filings hit the headlines, portraying the union as “broken” after seven years. Yet, within a month, McIlroy and Stoll backtracked on their separation, with McIlroy confirming ahead of the U.S. Open that they would stay together.
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Speaking to The Guardian, he said: “There have been rumors about my personal life recently, which is unfortunate. Responding to each rumor is a fool’s game.
“Over the past weeks, Erica and I have realised that our best future was as a family together. Thankfully, we have resolved our differences and look forward to a new beginning.”
A month later, Stoll was back on the golf course, supporting her husband as he aimed to defend his Scottish Open title at the Renaissance Club. Despite the intense scrutiny of their relationship by the global media, she showed remarkable resilience with her appearance, reports the Mirror US.
She was spotted following her husband around the North Berwick course, attentively watching his every move. McIlroy was also seen once again wearing his wedding ring, which he had removed in June when they announced their divorce plans.
Although he started strong at the Scottish Open, he ultimately tied for fourth place with Aaron Rai, Collin Morikawa, and Ludvig Aberg, finishing at 14-under-par. The tournament’s top spot went to Scottish hero Robert MacIntyre, who ended Sunday’s play with an overall score of 18-under.
It’s been over a year since Stoll and McIlroy decided to reconcile and remain a couple, and the 37-year-old American has been spotted alongside her husband at numerous tournaments. Stoll was a significant presence during McIlroy’s Masters win in April, where she was photographed smiling and embracing him as they strolled along Augusta National’s greens and fairways.
She was also one of the first to congratulate him after his historic win at the tournament, where he joined the ranks of the elite few who have completed the Career Grand Slam. A tearful McIlroy was seen approaching his wife just off the 18th green, where they shared a heartfelt embrace. Shortly after, McIlroy hugged their young daughter, Poppy, in a tender moment.
In his victory speech, upon receiving the prestigious Green Jacket, McIlroy once again acknowledged his family for their unwavering support throughout the tournament’s ups and downs. He said: “And last but certainly not least, over to my left, my family, my team.
“They’ve been on this journey with me the whole way through. They know the burden that I’ve carried to come here every year and try, and try, and try again, and the one thing I would say to my daughter Poppy that is sitting over there, never give up on your dreams. Never ever give up on your dreams.
“Keep coming back, keep working hard, and if you put your mind to it you can do anything. I love you.”
