Rory McIlroy Reveals His Biggest Rookie Spending Regret

Rory McIlroy has revealed his biggest spending regret as a rookie. The 36-year-old has enjoyed a glittering career filled with major titles, Ryder Cup victories, and millions in prize money. But he still regrets his actions in his early days as a professional golfer after making a big purchase with his PGA Tour earnings.

McIlroy Recalls His Worst Purchase Ever

The Northern Irishman shared the story of his splurge ahead of the BMW Championship at Caves Valley, recalling the excitement of being a rookie and seeing his bank account fill up for the first time. McIlroy was just 18 years old in 2007 and was new to the United States golf scene. McIlroy earned $20,530 after finishing T-42 at the British Masters on the DP World Tour in 2007. He then banked $286,769 after finishing third at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship. In the same year, the then 18-year-old earned another $56,425 at the Madrid Open.

McIlroy decided to splurge on himself, but what he bought was not a practical item or even something to help his golf career. Instead, McIlroy walked away with a diamond-encrusted watch.

“I only had a debit card at the time and checked my balance, he said. “ and I was like: ‘Holy (cow)’. I went straight to the jeweller.” At the time, it felt like a reward for his hard work and a symbol that he had “made it.” However, his feelings about that purchase changed with experience.

“It was a watch with diamonds around it. It was horrific. I can’t believe … it was like the worst purchase ever,” McIlroy told reporters when asked if he remembered how he spent that first paycheck. The 36-year-old declined to name the brand when he was asked. The Grand Slam winner cited his long-standing endorsement deal with Omega as he didn’t want to appear to be promoting another brand. “It’s not the make and model that I’m sponsored by now so I’m not going to say it,” he said.

Diamond Watch Part of McIlroy’s Past

McIlroy is currently one of the highest-paid athletes in the world. The five-time major winner is second all-time in career PGA Tour prize money, having earned more than $107 million in winnings to date. The Northern Irishman is on track to surpass legendary golfer Tiger Woods, who has earned around $121 million in prize money so far.