It seems that Rory McIlroy is ready to tee off a new life with his girlfriend Erica Stoll. The golf champion has reportedly proposed after a discreet courtship of one year. According to the Irish Independent, the 26-year-old popped the question during a romantic trip to Paris.
Rory McIlroy has been dating Erica Stoll for a year
His representatives declined to comment on reports of an engagement, although the sportsman did post a picture of the Eiffel Tower on his Instagram.
A few months ago Rory – who was previously engaged to Danish tennis player Caroline Wozniacki – did speak about his personal happiness. He explained that 27-year-old Erica, an employee of the Professional Golfers' Association in America, was a friend for several years before they began a relationship.
Asked about their romance, he told the Times magazine: "I am very happy. We haven't really been putting it out there."
The couple celebrating his win at the final of DP World Tour Championship in Dubai
He went on: "She doesn't play golf, but she is involved with golf. I have known her for three years and we are good friends. She is from America, which is why I like to spend time in Palm Beach.
"The past six or seven months have been really nice.…That part of my life is going great. If everything off the golf course is good, it allows you to be better on it as well."
The pair rang in New Year together at Ashford Castle. Since then the pretty blonde has been seen supporting him at various tournaments.
Rory and Erica were first photographed in public at the Irish Open in May this year
He broke off his engagement to tennis star Caroline in May 2014 just days after invitations to a New York wedding had been sent out.
Rory released a statement saying: "There is no right way to end a relationship that has been so important to two people. The problem is mine. The wedding invitations issued at the weekend made me realise that I wasn't ready for all that marriage entails.
"I wish Caroline all the happiness she deserves and thank her for the great times we've had. I will not be saying anything more about our relationship in any setting."
This post from Paris sparked speculation about a possible engagement
About a week later, Danish beauty Caroline spoke at a press conference at the French Open and admitted: "Obviously you're not prepared for something like this and it came as a bit of a shock. The only thing I really have to say is to thank everybody for their support and sweet messages... I just have to move on."