The Masters: 'we're all so proud of Rory - now it's party time' - First Minister
Michelle O'Neill says everyone in Northern Ireland is "bursting with pride."
Last updated 14th Apr 2025
Michelle O'Neill said today she hopes Northern Ireland will stage the 'biggest party ever' to mark Rory McIlroy's homecoming.
Stormont's First Minister said everyone was "bursting with pride" following the Holywood-born golfer's history-making Masters win which also meant he became just the sixth golfer ever to win a career Grand Slam having won all of the Major tournaments.
Speaking to Downtown Radio & Cool FM Chief Reporter James Gould, in Belfast, Ms O'Neill said: "It was really an emotional rollercoaster for everybody.
"We all were behind him every step of the way.
"I think his story is one of such a positive journey that no matter how many setbacks you have in life, if you work hard and are determined, you can get there in the end.
"I look forward to welcoming Rory home. I hope that we have the biggest reception possible because we are bursting with pride in terms of what he has achieved over the weekend."
Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald added: "I think it has lifted everybody's hearts right across the island."
"It is a great moment for Irish sport, for golf, for young people looking on to see somebody achieve their dream in such dramatic and breath-taking fashion is really, really wonderful."
Meanwhile, Ulster Unionist leader, Mike Nesbitt and DUP Communities Minister Gordon Lyons have called on King Charles to knight McIlroy
Mr Nesbitt said, “For a country the size of Northern Ireland, it is remarkable how many sports people have become icons in their fields. Think George Best, Mike Gibson, and Mary Peters, to name just three.
“Rory McIlroy has just trumped all of them and with the Grand Slam monkey off his back, looks set for even more success.
“This universally popular figure deserves the highest praise the nation can bestow, and a knighthood is just that.”
And Mr Lyons, speaking to our Chief Reporter James Gould said plans to celebrate Rory's return home to Northern Ireland will be looked at over the coming days.