The story behind the Duchess and golf star’s lighthearted bond
Before Meghan Markle’s royal romance with Prince Harry, she shared an intriguing friendship with golf champion Rory McIlroy, which first came to light in 2014.
Fresh off a major PGA Tour victory, Rory nominated Meghan for the viral Ice Bucket Challenge. In a playful twist, she agreed—on the condition that he personally pour the icy water over her. The challenge, aimed at raising awareness for ALS, resulted in a memorable moment as Rory drenched a laughing Meghan on a New York City balcony.
Following the lighthearted exchange, the two were spotted dining together in New York and later in Dublin, fueling speculation about a possible romance. Meghan even wrote about Rory on her now-defunct lifestyle blog, The Tig, calling him “the real deal.”
However, despite the rumors, their connection remained platonic, as Meghan was dating chef Cory Vitiello at the time.
Just two years later, Meghan’s life took a dramatic turn when she met Prince Harry, leading to their whirlwind royal journey. Meanwhile, Rory went on to marry Erica Stoll, with whom he welcomed a daughter. Though he briefly filed for divorce last year, the couple later reconciled.
While Meghan and Rory’s friendship was short-lived, it remains a fascinating chapter in the Duchess’s life before stepping into the royal spotlight.
