Rory McIlroy, one of golf’s most illustrious figures, is set to compete in the 2024 RBC Canadian Open in Toronto. He will be aiming to secure his third title at this prestigious event, which will run from May 30 to June 2. Not much time has passed since McIlroy confirmed his divorce from his wife of 7 years, Erica Stoll. 

Their separation raised questions about the future and the custody of their three-year-old daughter, Poppy Kennedy McIlroy. As the Northern Irishman prepares for the upcoming tournament, his interview on May 29 at Oakdale Golf & Country Club offers some insights into the golfer’s current living arrangements.

Are Rory McIlroy and her daughter Poppy living together?

At the press conference at Oakdale Golf & Country Club, when asked about his week off after the PGA Championship, where he finished with a T12, McIlroy said, ”I had a great weekend at home. Spent time with my family and with Poppy, and, yeah, it was awesome. So I needed that reset.” This provides hints about the possibility that Poppy is spending substantial time with her father, even after the split from Stoll, and could be living with him. But that seems highly unlikely as the golfer is out on the greens. She could be living with Stoll, or with McIlroy’s parents as well. 

At present, he seems to be balancing his career and parenthood amid a hectic schedule. “So I needed that reset. I’m playing four weeks in a row here, so, yeah, I’m ready to go.” Ending the statement at the RBC Open, the 36-year-old stated, “Last week was a good week to just reset and sort of start again.” 

After he became a father on August 31, 2020, Rory told Golfweek that becoming a dad has been a surreal experience. “It’s probably the best part of being a human being, and I’m glad that I got to experience it.” He also posted a picture of her daughter holding her pinky finger.

Well, coming on to who gets custody after McIlroy signed the divorce filing on May 9, his recent comments suggest he is keen on maintaining a close bond with Poppy, potentially setting the stage for a shared custody arrangement that prioritizes the child’s best interests. Both the father and mother are seeking split custody of their daughter, and they wish to maintain the situation amicably and respectfully for their daughter. 

Can he focus on his professional life amid personal turmoil?

The divorce and custody matters could have a profound impact on his performance and future in golf. But despite the emotional complexities of his situation, McIlroy’s recent performances suggest he remains focused and resilient. His ability to tackle personal issues while maintaining competitive form will be crucial. We witnessed this resilience during his divorce filing when he impressively went on to win the Wells Fargo Championship that same weekend. His Valhalla showdown also did not seem to have affected his performance. 

The last time the golfer broke up with her fiancée, the former #1 tennis player, Caroline Wozniacki, he went on a winning rampage and won the 2014 PGA Championship and the 2014 Open. This year, too, one can expect him to perform exceptionally well.

Well, it’s pretty unclear how things will go on from here, but one thing is for sure: Rory McIlroy will keep on pushing for her daughter while also maintaining his professional life. Fans would want to see the golfer and his daughter stay together. But all they can do is just wait and watch!