TEAM McILROY

WIFE ERICA

SHE has had a big role to play in helping me get a better sense of perspective. After not winning the Masters last year I had a few weeks of staring into the distance and binge-watching box sets and she was the one who dragged me out of it. It’s great to be with someone at the end of the day where you don’t talk about golf.

CADDIE HARRY DIAMOND

HE has been a massive help. We have been together 20 months and people think he’s on the bag because he’s my best friend but he’s an accomplished golfer. He knows when to talk to me and when I need to be distracted, and he knows my swing because we have had the same coach since we were about six. He’s so committed and he’s become one of the best caddies.

PUTTING COACH BRAD FAXON

WE got together about a year ago. It might seem strange but most of the work is done away from the putting green. It’s catching up for a coffee, it’s chatting. He’s a smart individual and because he played at a high level and was a brilliant putter, it’s talking to him about how he felt over pressure putts and how he felt on the course.

ALSO PART OF THE TEAM

COACH Michael Bannon has been with McIlroy since day one. Manager Sean O’Flaherty, a low handicap golfer and graduate of Trinity College, took over in 2013 when McIlroy left Horizon Sports agency.

RORY THE BOOKWORM

(What he’s been reading) David and Goliath (Malcolm Gladwell) The probability of improbable events, with famous examples of underdog triumphs. The Chimp Paradox (Steve Peters) How to act in your best interests and take control of your emotions. Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less (Greg McKeown) How to be disciplined in decision-making. Tipping Point (Malcolm Gladwell) How little things make a big difference. Awaken the Giant Within (Tony Robbins) How to take control of mental, emotional, physical and financial destiny. The 7 habits of Highly Effective People (Stephen Covey) How to adopt the correct approach in achieving one’s goals.