A year ago, Rory McIlroy's relationship with Erica Stoll appeared to be over.
The golf star stunned the world by filing for divorce from his other half, with the pair previously tying the knot back in 2017.
There were unfounded rumours of McIlroy potentially having an affair with a CBS Sports reporter. That is believed to be wide of the mark but that didn't stop some publications from running stories about alleged infidelity. Again, it must be severely stressed, there was never anything to substantiate those claims.
McIlroy then performed a U-turn, however, insisting that the duo had reconciled. In an interview with the Guardian, he said: “There have been rumours about my personal life recently, which is unfortunate.
Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll seem happier than ever these days as the PGA Championship looms
GETTY
"Responding to each rumour is a fool’s game.
“Over the past weeks, Erica and I have realised that our best future was as a family together.
"Thankfully, we have resolved our differences and look forward to a new beginning.”
All is now plain sailing for the couple. In fact, they appear happier than ever with McIlroy embracing Erica, and their four-year-old daughter Poppy, after winning the Masters at Augusta last month.
It has never been disclosed as to why the couple felt it was time to give up on their relationship. Comments made by McIlroy might, however, offer an insight.
Speaking ahead of the PGA Championship, he said he felt in a position to be a better family man now that he's ended his agonising wait for the first green jacket of his career.
These words have hinted that the pressures of golf took a toll on him, with his relationship with Erica suffering as a result.
He said: "I probably won't be quite as on edge as I have been for the last few years when I've been at major championships.
READ MORE: Snooker star loses appeal as five-year ban and huge fine for match-fixing confirmed
Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll married back in 2017GETTY"I'll probably be a little bit better to be around for my family, and I'll be a little more relaxed. I think overall it will be a good thing.”
Prior to his Masters win, McIlroy had to wait nearly 11 years for a major.
When he won the PGA Championship in 2014, aged just 25 at the time, many expected him to dominate the biggest events on the golf calender.
Instead, McIlroy was unable to get over the line. Even as recently as last year's US Open, some accused him of bottling it when it mattered most.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
- Lionel Messi explodes in anger and argues with referee as rival boss intervenes after Inter Miami match
- Ronnie O'Sullivan's whopping net worth, property portfolio and real reason he broke up with Laila Rouass
- Gary Neville apology demanded after Nottingham Forest star Taiwo Awoniyi, 27, placed in induced coma
That is not the case now, however.
McIlroy feels good and confident these days. And, in a warning to his rivals, the veteran wants more.
"I still want to create a lot of other highlights and high points, but I'm not sure if any other win will live up to what happened a few weeks ago," he continued.
Rory McIlroy embraced wife Erica Stoll after winning the Masters last monthREUTERS"I'm still going to set myself goals.
"I'm still going to try to achieve certain things.
"But I sit here knowing that that very well could be the highlight of my career."
