Rory McIlroy is in attendance at Sunningdale to watch the final round of the Senior Open Championship, with the four-time major winner showing his passion for the game

Rory McIlroy showed up at The Senior Open Championship this week(Image: DP World Tour/X)

Rory McIlroy has demonstrated his unwavering love for golf by showing up at Sunningdale to witness the final round of the Senior Open Championship.

McIlroy’s pal, Padraig Harrington, claimed a three-stroke win in Berkshire, England, winning his third senior major title. Having held off Justin Leonard and Thomas Bjorn, he became only the fifth golfer in history to triumph at both the Open and Senior Open.

Just a week after tying for seventh at The Open Championship at Royal Portrush, McIlroy, who resides a mere three miles from Sunningdale, has recently settled into a newly built mansion on the Wentworth estate with his wife, Erica Stoll.

Following consecutive weeks at the Scottish Open and The Open Championship, McIlroy took some time off in the south of France, where he was seen living it up in St. Tropez, as revealed by social media clips.

When fans inquired about the location of the Green Jacket from his Masters win, McIlroy, wine glass in hand and amidst lively music, joyously declared: “It’s on the yacht.”

Having returned to England, McIlroy could have easily spent a leisurely Sunday at home after an eventful few weeks. Yet, he chose to be present at Sunningdale, eagerly watching the Senior Open’s finale.

Upon his arrival, the 36-year-old graciously snapped photos with fans outside the Sunningdale clubhouse.

Rory taking in the final round of the ISPS HANDA Senior Open at Sunningdale 👀#SeniorOpen pic.twitter.com/eUbvElZbPv

— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) July 27, 2025

The Ulsterman, a true purist of the game, cherishes living near Sunningdale, one of the most esteemed courses globally. His relocation to the English countryside, a mere stone’s throw away from the course at less than 10 minutes, means he’ll be spending less time in Jupiter, Florida, where his family has been residing in recent years.

McIlroy’s stance on participating in senior golf events is noteworthy. Earlier this year, he emphatically stated that he does not see himself playing on the over-50s circuit after his professional career peaks.

“Look, I’ve said a lot of absolutes in my time that I’ve walked back, but I do not envision playing Champions Tour golf,” he asserted. “Something has gone terribly wrong if I have to compete at golf at 50.”

Harrington surged to the top of the leaderboard at Sunningdale with consecutive rounds of 65 on Friday and Saturday, and at 53 years old, he dominated as he progressed through his final round. Despite his impressive scores, Harrington wasn’t completely content with his performance.

“I don’t feel very good about how I’m hitting the ball,” he confessed on Saturday. “So I am trying to get away from that and not worry so much about that because clearly I’m scoring well.

“Better off shooting 13-under par and not feeling so good about it than thinking you’re swinging it great and being level par. So I just need to go out and play and try golf tomorrow.

“Hit the right shot at the right time and not necessarily try and play swing.”