‘How Can You Hate This Dude?’: Rory McIlroy Earns Golf World’s Respect as His Reunion With Superfan Kyler Goes Viral

Rory McIlroy is one of the biggest names in the golfing ledger. The four-time major winner has been making waves again, competing in THE PLAYERS Championship 2024. McIlroy began the first round rather slowly, even hitting a water ball in the seventh hole, which caused some confusion over the drop. This soon changed, as he ended up hitting 10 birdies later in the day, tying with the record at THE PLAYERS, and scoring his personal best since 2002.

His final score for the round ended at 7-under par 65, getting him the clubhouse lead at the end of the first round. He shared the top spot in a three-way lead with Xander Schauffele and Wyndham Clark. After the round was done, during the interviews, the 35-year-old pro was surprised by one of his most die-hard fans. Their interaction was a very wholesome one and a great way to close out the day after such a roller-coaster performance.

Long-time friends Rory McIlroy and Kyler Aubrey reunite

Kyler Aubrey, a superfan of the sport and a friend to Rory McIlroy, came out to the greens at TPC Sawgrass to show support for the golfer and the sport. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at a young age, the fan began his journey of meeting his idols a decade ago. Since then, he and his father have met and become friends with some of the biggest names in golf, including Jon Rahm, Tiger Woods, and Rory McIlroy.

In their interaction after the first round on Friday, one could see how happy both the golfer and Aubrey were to meet each other. “I like that hat, it’s nice“, said the Irishman, complimenting his friend on his look. Aubrey, on the other hand, lit up in excitement as McIlroy asked for a pen to sign Aubrey’s folder for him.

“You got a gold pen?“, McIlroy reacted to the pen Aubrey’s dad pulled out in order for the pro to sign his autograph. This heartwarming moment was captured and uploaded on Instagram as well.

The fans took to social media to comment on this beautiful moment that underscored a brilliant performance on the greens by McIlroy. Let’s see what the fans had to say!

“Class act by Rory”: Fans react to heartwarming moment

This interaction on Instagram got both haters and fans to unite, as the moment was appreciated by almost everyone on social media. With a whopping 16ooo plus likes on the platform within 4 hours, the post surely captured the attention of the golfing world.

Many came out in support of the golfer. One fan commented “Rory is the best!!” and his happiness was only matched by Kyler Aubrey when he got to meet his idol.

Another fan commented “Love you Rory thank you for being so nice” showcasing the positive impact this moment has had on his fans. This sentiment was echoed throughout the comments.

One fan, after seeing this wholesome interaction, had only one thing to ask. “I’ll never understand the Rory hate. He’s a solid guy, incredible golfer to watch. How can you hate this dude?” 

Many others agreed with this statement, like one fan, who commented, “y’all stay hating on him” with a shrug emoji, wondering how anyone could hate McIlroy after all this.

Read more: ‘Cheating His A** Off’: Rory McIlroy Faces Fans’ Wrath as His Heated Moment With Spieth & Hovland Goes Viral

As THE PLAYERS Championship nears to a close, Rory McIlroy now has an opportunity to finally win the game that has been evading him. Given his current form, he could be a strong contender, but only time will tell. For now, we can only wait and see as he takes to the greens for upcoming rounds. Will his luck run out or will he continue shining?

Read more: ‘5th Major My A**’: Fans Left Furious as an Underwhelming TPC Sawgrass Fails to Impress