Golfing sensation Rory McIlroy’s foundation has pledged €1.2 million towards the development of specialist support services for children with childhood cancer here, including the construction of a €13.5 million complex in Co Mayo.

Rory McIlroy may be the tournament host but he will do all he can to avoid being merely part of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open presentation party on Sunday evening.

As his broadcast from his private jet earlier this month proved beyond doubt, Rory McIlroy’s bank manager has little reason to worry about the world number’s one golfer’s balance.

Rory McIlroy has opened a new support centre for children with cancer and vowed to see it replicated elsewhere.

Rory McIlroy has opened a new support centre for children with cancer in the North and vowed to see it replicated elsewhere.