The man who helped make Rory king of swing

It says much about Michael Bannon’s place in Team McIlroy that before Rory sank his winning putt in the Valhalla darkness he took a moment to look for his father Gerry and then the man who has been his instructor since he was a small boy.

Later, as McIlroy savoured his PGA Championship victory, he reflected on Bannon’s role in his career and the way their relationship has unfolded over time.

“I think it’s changed. It’s evolved,” the four-time major winner said. “Our relationship has evolved over the past few years. Right now, he doesn’t need to be as hands-on because I’m going with it and I’ve got momentum.