Golf pro Rory McIlroy called things off with Danish tennis star Caroline Wozniacki partly because his personal life was affecting his game, sources tell Page Six.
One source said, “Rory’s game hasn’t been as consistently good in the time he’s been with Caroline. He was a young guy in love and was flying around the world to see her play in tournaments or meet up with her. He was missing practice rounds. It was a distraction.”
The source added, “When you have two players focused on being No. 1, it’s a huge commitment to see each other, physically and emotionally. As tough as the decision to end the relationship might have been, it is wise to do it now rather than after they were married.”
The source added that McIlroy’s personal life was further complicated by his legal battle with his former management company, a dispute that has been hanging over him for much of the season.
Another source said of McIlroy’s performance in the Players Championship earlier this month, “He is one of the most talented golfers out there, but his game was erratic.”
McIlroy, 25, and Wozniacki, 23, had been dating since 2011. They were engaged on New Year’s Eve. McIlroy said on Wednesday that he had broken up with her days after wedding invitations had gone out.
“The problem is mine. The wedding invitations issued at the weekend made me realize that I wasn’t ready for all that marriage entails,” McIlroy said. He later said the decision was “mutual … it was the best for both of us.”
Heartbroken Wozniacki thanked fans for their support Thursday, saying, “It’s a hard time for me right now. Thanks for all the sweet messages!” Wozniacki, a fan of Liverpool’s soccer team, added, “Happy I support Liverpool right now because I know I’ll never walk alone.”
A tennis source said the timing of their split was tough for Wozniacki since she is competing in the Roland Garros tournament, which starts in Paris on Sunday. Reps for McIlroy and Wozniacki could not be reached for comment.