McIlroy set for pro debut at The Belfry

IRISH teenager Rory McIlroy will make his professional debut in the company of 1999 British Open champion Paul Lawrie at The Belfry tomorrow.

The 18-year-old from Holywood formally announced yesterday that he is leaving the amateur ranks after a glittering career which makes him one of the great hopes of Irish golf.

As well as winning the Irish and European titles McIlroy starred in the British Open at Carnoustie in July, lying joint third after an opening 68, and only two weeks ago earned a Walker Cup cap in his native Northern Ireland.