Rory McIlroy Aims for Emotional Balance at PGA Championship, Says He’ll Be “Better to Be Around” for Wife Erica
As the 2025 PGA Championship approaches, four-time major winner Rory McIlroy is focusing on more than just his swing—he’s also turning his attention inward. In a recent comment, the Northern Irish golfer said he believes he’ll “be better to be around” for his wife, Erica Stoll, during the tournament. This candid admission offers a glimpse into the personal side of one of golf’s most successful and high-profile athletes.
Over the past year, McIlroy has faced considerable pressure, both on the course and in the public eye. As one of the leading voices in professional golf amid its recent controversies and evolving landscape, McIlroy has often found himself at the center of attention. Balancing that with the demands of elite competition has taken a toll at times, something the golfer seems to be acknowledging more openly.
In reflecting on his current mindset, McIlroy expressed a desire to approach this year’s PGA Championship with more emotional clarity and calm—a shift that he believes will benefit not just his game, but his relationship with his wife.
“I think I’ll be better to be around this time,” he said, hinting at how the stress of tournaments can sometimes spill over into his personal life. “When you’re not playing well, or you’re too focused on the game, it’s easy to forget about the people who support you most.”
McIlroy and Stoll have been married since 2017 and share a daughter, Poppy, born in 2020. Despite the demands of his global career, McIlroy has often spoken about the grounding role his family plays in his life. His recent remarks suggest a renewed commitment to maintaining that balance—being present as a husband and father, even while chasing another major title.
Fans and analysts alike are keeping a close eye on McIlroy’s performance at the PGA, but his personal growth may be just as significant as any trophy he could win. As he heads into one of golf’s biggest stages, McIlroy appears determined not just to succeed, but to do so with a clearer, more connected approach to life—on and off the course.
