Mum Rosie key to Rory’s Open victory

PACEMAKER PRESS INTERNATIONAL, BELFAST,
Rory McIlroy pictured at home in Holywood with Dad, Gerry and Mum Rosie.
Picture Charles McQuillan/Pacemaker.
26/2/2012 Rory plays in the final of the accenture World Match play this evening. If he wins the tournament he becomes World Number 1. — PACEMAKER PRESS INTERNATIONAL, BELFAST, Rory McIlroy pictured at home in Holywood with Dad, Gerry and Mum Rosie. Picture Charles McQuillan/Pacemaker. 26/2/2012 Rory plays in the final of the accenture World Match play this evening. If he wins the tournament he becomes World Number 1.

The golfer dedicated his win to his mother, Rosie, after claiming the Claret Jug by two shots.

The Northern Irishman, who has now won three major titles, was embraced by his mum after holing the winning putt.

“This is the first major I have won when my mum has been here,” McIlroy said. “So mum; this one is for you. It was just great to see her on the back of the 18th there and how much it meant to her. I was trying not to cry at the time because she was bawling her eyes out.

“The Open is the one we all want and the one we strive for. To be holding the Claret Jug is an incredible feeling.”

Rory’s mother Rosie grew up in Taghnevan before marrying Gerry McIlroy and moving to Holywood. His uncle Mickey McDonald, who starred for Glenavon and Cliftonville in the 70s and 80s is also a keen supporter of his nephew.

Gerry cashed in from the bookies on Sunday when his son won the Open. 10 years ago he’d placed a £200 bet that his 15-year-old son, Rory, would win the Open Championship before he turned 26.

As the 25-year-old raised the Claret Jug aloft at the Royal Liverpool Golf Club after winning by two shots on Sunday, his father suddenly found himself £100,000 richer. He isn’t alone with cause for added celebration. Ladbrokes said two of his friends had placed similar bets, which will cost the bookmaker a further £80,000.