Rory McIlroy Seeks Respectful and Amicable Divorce from Erica Stoll

Rory McIlroy Addresses Divorce Filing From Wife Erica Stoll

Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll Warren Little/Getty Images

Pro golfer Rory McIlroy has filed for divorce from his wife Erica Stoll, but he wants the process to be peaceful and respectful. A spokeswoman for McIlroy's communications team shared the news with Irish Star on Tuesday, May 14. They emphasized that Rory is committed to handling the situation in a friendly and amicable manner. He has chosen not to provide any additional comments at this time.

McIlroy, who is 35 years old, filed for divorce in Florida on Monday, May 13. The reason for the split has not been disclosed yet. His lawyer, Thomas J. Sasser, also represented Tiger Woods in his divorce from Elin Nordegren in 2010.

The divorce filing happened shortly before the PGA Championship 2024 this weekend, where McIlroy is considered one of the top contenders. He previously won the major in 2014.

McIlroy met Stoll, who is 36 years old, back in 2012 when he was in a relationship with tennis player Caroline Wozniacki. (McIlroy and Wozniacki, who is now 33 years old, were engaged briefly and broke up in 2014 after being together for three years.)

Rory McIlroy Addresses Divorce Filing From Wife Erica Stoll

Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll Andrew Redington/Getty Images

In January 2017, McIlroy shared with the Irish Independent about his relationship with Stoll. He mentioned that they were friends before anything romantic happened. They first met when Stoll was working for the PGA of America and renting a condo in Palm Beach. McIlroy appreciated being with someone who led a normal life, rather than someone always dealing with private jets being late.

The couple got engaged in Paris in 2015 and later got married at a castle in Ireland. During a 2015 event at Facebook's Dublin headquarters, McIlroy spoke highly of Stoll.

He mentioned that Erica brings a sense of normality to his life and has a calming presence. McIlroy also praised her for not seeking attention and being comfortable in the background. Stoll has had a positive influence on him and has brought balance to his life, both in the public eye and at home.

McIlroy and Stoll became parents in 2020 when they welcomed their daughter, Poppy.

"Poppy Kennedy McIlroy was born on August 31st at 12:15pm. She is the absolute love of our lives. Mother and baby are both doing great," McIlroy shared on Instagram, posting a photo of Poppy's tiny hand holding onto his pinky finger.

McIlroy's most recent social media post with Stoll was in August 2023. He posted an Instagram video of himself, Stoll, and Poppy running around on the golf course at The Masters, captioning it as "Always one of the best days of the year."

Editor's P/S:

The divorce filing between Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll marks a significant change in their relationship. Despite their commitment to a peaceful and respectful process, the news has sent shockwaves through the golf world. McIlroy's decision to remain silent on the matter reflects his desire to maintain privacy and avoid further speculation.

The timing of the divorce filing, just before the PGA Championship, has raised questions about its potential impact on McIlroy's performance. However, his past comments about Stoll's calming influence and her ability to bring balance to his life suggest that he may be able to compartmentalize his personal and professional lives. As one of the top contenders in the tournament, McIlroy's resilience and determination will be tested as he navigates this challenging time.