FIVE-TIME Major champion Rory McIlroy is the first golfer confirmed to be teeing off in Doonbeg for the Irish Open this September.

Rory will be out in Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Doonbeg Ireland to defend his title at the 2026 Amgen Irish Open from September 9th to 13th. The world number two claimed his second Amgen Irish Open crown in dramatic fashion last year, defeating Joakim Lagergren in a play-off after a thrilling finale at The K Club.

McIlroy holed a remarkable 28-foot eagle putt on the final hole to force extra holes before sealing victory on the third extra hole, emulating his memorable 2016 triumph at the same venue.

He capped off a stellar 2025 campaign by being crowned Race to Dubai Champion for a seventh time and fourth time in succession following a landmark year that saw him complete the career Grand Slam at The Masters, lift the Amgen Irish Open trophy and claim three victories on the PGA TOUR. The 36-year-old also earned 3.5 points to help Europe earn their first away win in the Ryder Cup since 2012 at Bethpage Black, New York.

“I’m looking forward to returning home for the Amgen Irish Open later this year,” said McIlroy. “Playing in front of Irish fans is always incredibly special. The scenes at The K Club last year were unforgettable. The roar when I holed my eagle putt on the 18th and the energy from the crowd will stay with me forever. Hopefully I can give the fans more of the same this year at Doonbeg”.

The Amgen Irish Open once again assumes a key position on the DP World Tour’s Global Schedule as part of the ‘Back 9’, which encompasses nine of the Tour’s most historic tournaments and national opens.

McIlroy is part of an esteemed roll of honour to have won Ireland’s national open, which also includes Seve Ballesteros, Nick Faldo, Pádraig Harrington, Jon Rahm, Colin Montgomerie, José María Olazábal, Bernhard Langer and Sam Torrance.

Fans are encouraged to secure tickets early to avoid disappointment, with Sunday General Admission, all Premium Experiences and all Ticket+ packages having sold out at The K Club in 2025.

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