LIV, laugh, love: Rory McIlroy reflects on betrayal, tears and joy in a year like no other

Fresh from returning to the summit of world golf, the Irishman opens up on an extraordinary 12 months, his tears at the Open and the ‘betrayal’ of his former Ryder Cup teammates

IN THE AFTERGLOW: Rory McIlroy celebrates after winning during the final round of the CJ Cup at Congaree Golf Club on October 23, 2022 in Ridgeland, South Carolina. Pic: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

A life as extraordinary as that of Rory McIlroy will seldom include ordinary years. Events surrounding the Northern Irishman over the past 12 months just feel worthy of special reflection.

McIlroy’s successful defence of the CJ Cup on Sunday restored him as the world’s top-ranked golfer. Another European order of merit title is within his grasp. McIlroy’s 2022 has been of great highs – he won the Canadian Open and FedEx Cup before glory in South Carolina – and painful lows. After the Open Championship slipped away, McIlroy was reduced to tears.