On Friday, Rory McIlroy returned to Northern Ireland for the first time since becoming a Masters champion. Curiously, however, wife Erica Stoll was nowhere to be seen.
The golfer has been basking in the glory on last Sunday's sensational achievement, where he defeated Justin Rose in a dramatic play-off match to etch his name into the history books.
At several points, it looked as though McIlroy had blown his chances of glory. A nightmare on the 13th hole, and a missed putt to win it on the 18th, had millions fearing a repeat of the past.
Yet the 35-year-old did brilliantly to keep his cool and, though Rose was majestic, McIlroy was eventually one level above as he finally completed the career Grand Slam.
Rory McIlroy has returned to Northern Ireland following his Masters win - but wife Erica Stoll was nowhere to be seen
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After his win, the golfer was emotional.
He fell to his knees at Augusta before lifting himself off the ground in order to hug Erica and their four-year-old daughter, Poppy.
McIlroy and his wife were all smiles on Sunday, posting for photographs at Augusta grinning from ear to ear. Shy Poppy, though a little overwhelmed, seemed to enjoy herself as well.
It was a situation that seemed unfeasible a year ago when McIlroy filed for divorce, believing it was time to start afresh.
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That bombshell sent shockwaves around the golf world, with the couple previously tying the knot in April 2017.
Then, in a stunning twist, McIlroy confirmed that they wouldn't be going their separate ways after all. In an interview with the Guardian, he said: “There have been rumors about my personal life recently, which is unfortunate.
“Responding to each rumor is a fool’s game. Over the past weeks, Erica and I have realised that our best future was as a family together.
"Thankfully, we have resolved our differences and look forward to a new beginning.”
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Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll embraced at the Masters as the golf star won at Augusta on SundayREUTERSThe couple have appeared happier than ever in the time since. However, following Sunday's sensational win at Augusta, there has been a curious development.
In an interview with CBS Sports' Amanda Balionis, the Briton didn't mention his wife when hailing his inner circle for their trust and support.
Instead, McIlroy stated: "I have had an incredible support system the whole way throughout my life as an only child, the support that I had from my parents, they saw some potential in me as a golfer.
"I have a, as you call it, a village. But it's a close-knit village and it's pretty small, but everyone that's in there means an incredible deal to me."
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This raised eyebrows because there have previously been reports suggesting McIlroy and Balionis were once together.
It must be stressed, however, that this has never been confirmed - with neither ever commenting on the speculation.
However, Erica has since seemingly opted to stay in America while her other half has jetted back to the UK to spend time with his family.
It is currently unclear why she hasn't made the trip. Just a week ago it seemed likely the pair would go together.
Rory McIlroy poses with his wife Erica Stoll and their daughter, Poppy, after winning the MastersreutersErica might, potentially, just need some time by herself. All humans do from time to time. Or she might be along a little later, that can't be ruled out either.
Whether the situation becomes clearer remains to be seen.
