RORY McIlroy sealed golfing immortality after becoming only the sixth-ever career grand slam champion following a rollercoaster four rounds at The Masters.
In his post-victory interview, the Northern Irishman broke down in tears as he thanked his mum Rosie and dad Gerry for the sacrifices they made — here’s everything we know about the 2025 Green Jacket winner’s folks.
Rory McIlroy won the career grand slam on attempt number 11[/caption]
He defeated Englishman Justin Rose on the first hole of the playoff[/caption]
Who are Rory McIlroy’s mum and dad Rosie and Gerry?
Rory McIlroy is the son of Rosie and Gerry McIlroy.
His parents have played a pivotal role in his journey to becoming one of golf’s greatest players.
Mum Rosie, 64, worked graveyard shifts at a factory to fund Rory‘s budding golf career, while Gerry juggled three jobs to provide for the family.
Gerry, 65, is a skilled golfer in his own right, with a scratch handicap at Holywood Golf Club.
He introduced Rory to the sport at an early age, even taking him to the driving range in a stroller.
Rory received his first plastic golf club at just 21 months old and quickly developed an obsession with the game.
His parents’ sacrifices meant foregoing family holidays for over a decade, but their commitment laid the foundations for Rory’s incredible success in the sport.
‘My best friends’
Rosie and Gerry’s support extends beyond financial means, with Rory describing them as his “best friends”.
In 2017, he said: “I’m an only child, so I was always very close to them.
“They’re like my best friends. I can tell them anything, lean on them, ask them for advice.”
Heartfelt tribute
After his historic victory at the 2025 Masters, Rory spoke emotionally about his parents during interviews.
Although they were not present at Augusta National to witness his triumph, their absence did not diminish his gratitude for their support over the years.
Fighting back tears, he reflected on their sacrifices during his early career.
Rory said: “I would say it was 14 years in the making, going out with a four-shot lead in 2011, you’re feeling like I could have got it done there.
“There was a lot of pent-up emotion that came out on that 18th green.
“But a moment like that makes all the years and all the close calls worth it.
“I want to say hello to my mum and dad, they’re back home in Northern Ireland.
“They did [make a lot of sacrifices]. I can’t wait to see them next week.
“Just can’t wait to celebrate this with them.”
