A newly emerged photograph has captured the moment Rory McIlroy's wife Erica Stoll shared a warm embrace with Kate Rose just seconds after McIlroy's Masters victory on Sunday.
The image adds important context to what became a talking point after the tournament when Kate, wife of Justin Rose, was seen hugging McIlroy himself in a moment that caught viewers' attention.
Golf reporter Kyle Porter shared the picture on social media platform X, writing: "Oh wow I didn't see this one either, but Kate hugged Erica about 3 seconds after the putt dropped."
The tender exchange between the two wives highlights the close relationships between the golfing families, even after McIlroy defeated Rose in a dramatic playoff to claim the green jacket and complete his career Grand Slam.
Rory McIlroy was seen hugging Kate Rose after winning the Masters on Sunday
X
The moment that initially caught viewers' attention occurred when McIlroy, overcome with emotion, shared a lengthy embrace with what many described as a "mystery blonde" shortly after celebrating with his wife and daughter.
Television cameras captured the 35-year-old Northern Irishman hugging the woman for approximately 12 seconds as the magnitude of his achievement began to sink in.
The woman was later identified as Kate Rose, wife of Justin Rose, whom McIlroy had just defeated in the sudden death playoff.
She had been standing next to Stoll as McIlroy sank the winning putt.
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Oh wow I didn't see this one either, but Kate hugged Erica about 3 seconds after the putt dropped. Man. Can't believe Europe is good at Ryder Cups! pic.twitter.com/YJWaT3bZ0x
— Kyle Porter (@KylePorterNS) April 14, 2025
According to reporter Kyle Porter of Normal Sport, Kate told McIlroy during their embrace: "I'm really, really happy for you."
The heartfelt moment reflected the strong friendship between McIlroy and Rose, who have been Ryder Cup teammates for many years.
The sportsmanship between the Rose and McIlroy families was further emphasised by Justin Rose's gracious message on social media after his playoff defeat.
"I gave it everything," Rose wrote. "Congratulations Rory McIlroy on winning the Masters and completing the Grand Slam."
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He added: "Very cool sharing the green with you in that moment thank you Team Rose as always for all the support during the week... We go again."
The camaraderie between the two golfers extends beyond competition, with both having represented Europe in the Ryder Cup on multiple occasions.
They will almost certainly team up again later this year when the prestigious event is held at Bethpage, just outside New York.
The newly emerged photos come against the backdrop of McIlroy's personal life, which has seen significant changes over the past year.
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Just 11 months ago, McIlroy had filed for divorce from Stoll, sparking speculation about his relationship status.
However, the pair have since reconciled.
McIlroy and Erica appeared every bit happy together following his historic Augusta victory, with the golf star paying tribute to his family.
Speaking after his victory, the golfer said: “I’ve rode my luck all week.
Rory McIlroy poses with wife Erica Stoll after winning the Masters on Sunday
REUTERS
“And again, I think with the things that I’ve had to endure over the last few years, I think I deserved it.”
On his family, he added: “My family, my team, they’ve been on this journey with me the whole way through.
“They know the burden that I’ve carried to come here every year and try, and try, and try again.”
