Rory McIlroy Enjoys Masters Par 3 Contest with Family
Rory McIlroy and his wife, Erica Stoll, looked happy during the Masters Par 3 Contest on Wednesday.
Their daughter, Poppy, was also present as they enjoyed the annual event at Augusta National, which occurs the day before the Masters begins.
Stoll supported McIlroy by carrying his bag during this relaxed competition, while Poppy walked with her dad, who was dressed in his signature white Caddy jumpsuit.
In one photo, McIlroy and Stoll were spotted with Shane Lowry, all smiles as they walked down the first hole. Another picture shows the family posing together during the contest.
This event is special because it brings the families of golfers into the mix, creating touching moments—especially as children often steal the show.
The Masters’ website describes the atmosphere: “Families gather to join the players as children in caddy jumpsuits wander around. Some take swings and putts, while others simply jump into bunkers and play in the sand.”
In May 2024, McIlroy made headlines when he filed for divorce, citing that their marriage was “irretrievably broken down,” but the proceedings were halted a month later.
Golf journalist Alan Shipnack’s book, “Rory: The Heartache and Triumph of Golf’s Most Human Superstar,” touches on McIlroy’s early flirtation with Stoll during the 2012 Ryder Cup, which ended his engagement to tennis player Caroline Wozniacki. It also mentions rumors in 2024 linking him with CBS reporter Amanda Balionis, which reportedly strained his marriage to Stoll.
Despite the challenges, Stoll stood by McIlroy during his 2025 Masters win and through a tough Ryder Cup event where the couple faced rowdy fans at Bethpage Black.
Returning to Augusta as the defending champion, McIlroy felt a sense of relief after ending an 11-year drought in major championships. He shared his thoughts with reporters, emphasizing that he had more goals to pursue. “What I realized is that if you can really find fun in the journey, that’s a big thing, because to be honest, I felt like the Grand Slam of my career was my destination, and then I got there and realized it wasn’t the destination,” he reflected.
