Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Rory McIlroy used a private investigator to inform his wife he was divorcing her

The golfer also retained attorney who represented Tiger Woods in his divorce

Michelle Del Rey
Wednesday 29 May 2024 16:54 EDT
Comments
Rory McIlroy: 'I wish I hadn't have gotten as deeply involved' with the LIV Golf controversies

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Rory McIlroy used a private investigator to serve his wife with divorce papers earlier this month, it has been revealed.

The professional golfer, 35, used Carl Woods, a private investigator and former police officer, to deliver the documents to his wife Erica McIlroy, 36, at the couple’s home in Jupiter, Florida on 13 May, the Belfast Telegraph reported. McIlroy stated in the papers that his seven-year marriage was “irretrievably broken”.

The papers were delivered one day after the golfer won the Wells Fargo Championship in Quail Hallow, North Carolina. He had digitally signed the papers on the first day of the tournament, according to the newspaper.

Ms McIlroy has 20 days to respond to the filing at Palm Beach County Court.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland celebrates with his wife Erica and daughter Poppy after winning the 2021 Wells Fargo Championship
Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland celebrates with his wife Erica and daughter Poppy after winning the 2021 Wells Fargo Championship ((Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images))

“Your written response, including the case number given above and the names of the parties, must be filed if you want the court to hear your side of the case,” the records stated, according to the newspaper. “If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case, and your wages, money and property may thereafter be taken without further warning from the court.”

Ms McIIroy has not yet responded to the divorce filing.

The couple were married in 2017 at Ashford Castle in Ireland, and have a three-year-old daughter Poppy. The Northern Irish golfer is seeking to enforce a 2017 prenuptial agreement and share custody of the child, according to the Belfast Telegraph.

McIlroy has also retained the services of Thomas Sasser, an attorney who represented Tiger Woods in his divorce from Elin Nordegren.

The Independent has contacted Mr McIlroy’s representative for comment.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in