Rory McIlroy has announced that his friend and fellow major attraction in world Golf Rickie Fowler is to play at the Irish Open at Royal County Down next year.
McIlroy is playing a very active role in promoting the tournament and his charitable foundation is one of the main partners for the event.
Having such a big name from the US will be a major boost to Failte Ireland, who remain the headline commercial partners of the event, and who are competing head to head for US visitors with Scotland.
Gleneagle’s hosting of the Ryder Cup in September was a big boost for them but Fowler’s presence in County Down next May gives the advantage back to Ireland.
“I am delighted that Rickie has decided to add the Irish Open to his schedule next year. I really look forward to him joining me at Royal County Down, one of the world’s finest links courses,” said McIlroy speaking this morning in Dubai.
“Rickie’s performances in the Majors and The Ryder Cup this year showed that he is not only one of the top players in the world, but also one of the most watchable. I know the Irish crowds will really take to him and enjoy seeing him in action next May. He was one of the first people I thought of when the Rory Foundation became the official host of the Irish Open, and his presence in the field will only add to tournament’s prestige.”
Image Credit Cathal Noonan, Inpho.ie
