Rory McIlroy pays to settle law suit

Report by Anand Datla

February 05, 2015: The world’s best golfer can turn his attention back to his game. Not that he was struggling – his last seven starts have all resulted in him either winning or being second. Rory McIlroy has been straining for focus even as he dealt with a bitter legal dispute with his former agents at Horizon Management. However, just as it seemed that the legal spat was about to boil over into a eight week long courtroom drama, the two parties agreed to settle the dispute. It is understood from various reports in the media that the 25 year old golfer has agreed to pay an amount in excess of US$25mn to draw the curtains down on this intriguing dispute.

In a joint statement, issued outside the courtroom in Dublin – McIlroy and Horizon stated, “The legal dispute between the two has been settled to the satisfaction of both parties who wish each other well for the future. The parties will be making no further comment.”

With the media waiting in full force at the High Court, just off River Liffey, any hopes that McIlroy may take the stand were given down a wet dressing. McIlroy did reach the court, but it was his advocate Paul Gallagher who was seen doing most of the rounds as the parties sought each other for a quick settlement.

McIlroy’s team was of the opinion that Horizon Sports Management drew their client into an unconscionable contract, while the agents were demanding millions of dollars in compensation for the star terminating their agreement. The top golfer had terminated the contract in September 2013 before launching his own sports management company.

It is understood that the Judge, Brian Cregan, also played a part in goading the two parties to negotiate a settlement and avoid a lengthy, bruising battle inside the court. With the case rested, McIlroy can turn his attention to the Honda Classic, his next scheduled start on the Tour. The Green Jacket at the Masters remains a cherished dream for McIlroy, who shall now be free to pursue it without distraction.