Rory McIlroy’s 8-year silence with former caddie after ‘disgusting’ sacking

Rory McIlroy and former caddie JP Fitzgerald haven’t spoken in the eight years since the end of their professional relationship

Rory McIlroy and his former caddie JP Fitzgerald, who together clinched four major titles, haven’t spoken since their professional split. The pair, who were once close pals, achieved great success on the PGA Tour, propelling McIlroy to become a global golf sensation second only to Tiger Woods.

However, as McIlroy’s major title drought extended, they decided to part ways. Fitzgerald was let go from his role as McIlroy’s caddie in the summer of 2017, following a nearly three-year dry spell that would extend over a decade before McIlroy’s stunning Masters victory.

After being sacked, Fitzgerald took a two-year hiatus, suggesting the decision had taken a toll on him. In 2019 Fitzgerald disclosed to The Daily Mail that he hasn’t had any contact with McIlroy since their professional separation.

“At the end of the day, I went away to collect my thoughts and recharge my batteries,” Fitzgerald shared. “It was obvious that I needed the break. But I’ve learned from every player with whom I’ve worked, and Rory is no different to others like Ernie Els in that regard. I’m appreciative of the fact they’ve all helped me to get better as a caddie.”

Their split came as a surprise, especially considering McIlroy had publicly praised Fitzgerald at their last event together, the Open at Royal Birkdale.

Despite a troubling start where McIlroy found himself four-over par after just five holes, his caddie Fitzgerald took a moment to demand better, sharply reminding him: “You’re Rory f****** McIlroy, what are you doing?”.

The stern pep talk did wonders as McIlroy reversed his fortunes to secure fourth place. Despite Fitzgerald’s impactful intervention, McIlroy felt a change was necessary and parted ways with him after their partnership failed to produce any more major wins following the triumph at the 2014 PGA Championship.

Post-Open victory, McIlroy maintained his form, overcoming a prolonged weather delay to secure an electrifying win at Valhalla, marking his last major success with Fitzgerald.

Currently, McIlroy is focused on reclaiming the glory he experienced whilst working with Fitzgerald, and he is stepping out at Quail Hollow for the PGA Championship this Thursday, determined to add to his impressive tally of titles.

While McIlroy pursues further accomplishments, Fitzgerald has been busy on the course, albeit briefly pairing up with American golfer Matt Wolff in June but quickly moving on after only two competitions.

In his recent endeavours, Fitzgerald has aligned himself with Victor Perez from France, already seeing success as they clinched an outstanding victory together at the Dunhill Links Championship, marking Perez’s first European Tour win.