Rory McIlroy Cites Daughter Poppy as Main Reason for Calling Off Divorce.
In a heartfelt revelation, golf superstar Rory McIlroy has shared that his four-year-old daughter, Poppy Kennedy McIlroy, was the primary reason for his decision to reconcile with his wife, Erica Stoll, and call off their divorce. The announcement comes just days before the U.S. Open, where McIlroy is set to compete, marking a significant moment both personally and professionally for the world No. 3 golfer.
McIlroy, 35, initially filed for divorce from Stoll, 37, on May 13, 2024, in a Florida court, citing an irretrievably broken marriage. However, in a recent interview featured in the third season of Netflix’s Full Swing, McIlroy opened up about the decision to halt the proceedings, describing the filing as a “wake-up call.” He emphasized that his desire to keep his family together, particularly for the sake of their daughter, was the driving force behind the reconciliation.
“Poppy is the center of our world, and Erica and I both realized that our best future is as a family,” McIlroy told The Guardian. “It’s not just about us—it’s about giving her the stability and love she deserves.” The couple, married since 2017, shares a deep commitment to co-parenting Poppy, and McIlroy expressed gratitude for resolving their differences, stating, “We’re looking forward to a new beginning.”
The decision to dismiss the divorce petition was formalized on June 11, 2024, when McIlroy’s attorney, Thomas Sasser, filed a motion to voluntarily close the case in Palm Beach County family court. Sources close to the couple noted that time apart and reflection, coupled with their shared love for Poppy, helped them navigate their challenges. “It’s been quite the year, but I’m super happy with where I am in my career and in my life,” McIlroy said after his third DP World Tour Championship win in Dubai in November 2024, crediting Erica and Poppy’s support as invaluable.
McIlroy’s openness about his personal life has been rare, as he noted in Full Swing, “There’s parts of my life that I like to keep as private as possible, but unfortunately, in this line of work, that isn’t always possible.” Despite rumors and speculation, including unfounded gossip about his professional relationships, McIlroy dismissed such chatter as “a fool’s game” and focused on his family’s future.
As McIlroy prepares for the U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, where he aims to end a decade-long major championship drought, the reconciliation has visibly lifted his spirits. Paired with Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele for the opening rounds, McIlroy’s renewed focus and emotional stability could prove to be a game-changer on the course. Fans and analysts alike are rooting for the Northern Irishman, both in his professional endeavors and his commitment to family.
The golfing world continues to buzz with support for McIlroy’s decision, with posts on X reflecting a mix of admiration and relief. “Rory putting his daughter first is the real win here,” one user wrote, capturing the sentiment of many who see this as a testament to McIlroy’s character.
