Rory McIlroy has revealed how Roger Federer inspired his decision to place his life with wife Erica Stoll and their family ahead of an unforgiving golf schedule.
The six-time major champion has attracted criticism after skipping several tournaments and taking greater control over when he competes.
Read Also: Asda shoppers to see major change as digital price tags arrive in 500 stores
Some golf supporters even demanded that McIlroy be punished once it became apparent that he would not satisfy the 15-event requirement.
Yet the Northern Irishman has remained unapologetic, having chosen to spend more time away from the course with Erica and their daughter, Poppy.
McIlroy’s determination to strike a healthier balance has increased since his marriage went through a turbulent period in 2024.
He filed for divorce from Erica in May of that year before the couple reconciled the following month, with McIlroy confirming that they had resolved their differences.
His priorities have continued to evolve since then, particularly after he completed the career Grand Slam and removed one of the greatest sources of pressure hanging over his career.
McIlroy has now identified Federer as the example he wants to follow when attempting to combine sporting greatness with a happy family life.
Speaking to Tennis Channel on Saturday, he praised the 20-time Grand Slam champion for never allowing his success to overwhelm his relationships away from tennis.
“He arguably is the greatest player of all time, but he doesn’t let that affect his outside life or his family life,” McIlroy said.
“It seems like he’s got a wonderful balance between the two. The way he is with Mirka, the way he is with his kids, the way he is with his parents.
“He’s a wonderful role model for me.”
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
- Michael Carrick faces same Man United problem that doomed his predecessors
- Chelsea left furious after collapse of £47m transfer on deadline day
- Arthur Fery issues blame after crashing out of US Open in first round
McIlroy’s carefully selected schedule has allowed him to be present for important family moments during another demanding season.
He stepped away from competition following the PGA Championship and spent the summer at Wentworth with Erica.
McIlroy also took another break after The Open in order to enjoy valuable time with Poppy before returning for the FedEx Cup play-offs.
His time away initially appeared to have affected his sharpness as he struggled at the FedEx St Jude Championship and finished near the bottom of the leaderboard.
However, any concerns over his form quickly disappeared.
McIlroy returned home to Florida after his difficult week in Memphis and immediately resumed work alongside his swing coach.
The response was emphatic as he finished third at the BMW Championship at Bellerive on 13 under par just one week later.
He then secured a share of fourth place at the season-ending Tour Championship on Sunday, demonstrating that his reduced schedule had not prevented him from competing near the top of the leaderboard.
Our Standards:
The GB News Editorial Charter
