Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll Make a Stylish Entrance at Ryder Cup Gala
Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll arrived hand in hand at Hempstead House in Sands Point, New York, on September 23, captivating the crowd at the Ryder Cup welcome dinner. This event, a prelude to one of golf's most prestigious competitions, gathered the sport's elite for an evening of glamour.
McIlroy, 36, opted for a timeless black suit and tie, while Stoll, 38, turned heads in a stunning black gown that quickly became a highlight of the night. The couple walked the red carpet together, showcasing their unity as they posed alongside McIlroy’s Team Europe teammates and their partners.
The welcome dinner is a cherished Ryder Cup tradition, occurring on the Tuesday before the competition kicks off. It serves as one of the rare opportunities for players from both Team Europe and Team USA to socialize before the competitive atmosphere intensifies. The guest list included captains, vice captains, caddies, and family members, making it one of golf's most glamorous nights.
For McIlroy and Stoll, this event symbolized their renewed bond. The couple had briefly filed for divorce in May 2024 but reconciled shortly after. Their public appearance together at the gala indicated they are back on solid ground as they head into Ryder Cup week.
Stoll typically maintains a low profile but has chosen Ryder Cup week as a time to support McIlroy publicly. This appearance came just days after McIlroy expressed in an interview that the pressures of fame can be overwhelming. “It is a struggle for me to love the position I am in all the time,” he shared, reflecting on his desire for moments of anonymity amidst his high-profile career.
Despite these challenges, McIlroy embraces the Ryder Cup spotlight. A seasoned participant with seven appearances under his belt, he played a pivotal role in leading Team Europe to victory in Rome in 2023. He has expressed confidence that Europe can secure another win on American soil at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York, where this year’s competition will take place.
Known for thriving under pressure, McIlroy has contributed to five Ryder Cup victories throughout his illustrious career. The competition officially commences on Friday, September 26, when McIlroy and his Team Europe teammates—including Jon Rahm, Justin Rose, and captain Luke Donald—will face off against Team USA members like Bryson DeChambeau, Scottie Scheffler, and captain Keegan Bradley in the opening matches at the historic golf course.
