MASTERS STROKE

Rory will be the richest Irish sports star ever | Grand Slam winner set to be €1billion athlete

- DEREK FOLEY

RORY Mcllroy will become Ireland's wealthiest ever sports star following his US Masters triumph.

The 35-year-old - whose win in Augusta completed a Grand Slam of all four Major titles will see his earnings rocket past controversial MMA fighter Conor McGregor.

The golfer came form humble beginnings in Holywood, Co Down, with his parents Rosie and Gerry working extra jobs to support his career. Now, he is on the cusp of becoming Ireland's first $1 billion athlete.

Right now though, his personal brand and sponsorship deals/potential currently stand somewhere in the region of €578million.

While game/sponsorship earnings are being bracketed with iconic figures such as Roger Federer and LeBron James, his profile sees him now in the same space as David Beckham and Lewis Hamilton in terms of global visibility.

Domestically, McIlroy sits at the head of the Irish sports rich list which also comprises McGregor, Eddie Irvine, Robbie Keane, Roy Keane, Padraig Harrington, Damien Duff, AP McCoy and Shane Lowry.

After his Masters win, first he has to deal with the US taxman.

That will take a significant bite of the €3.6million Masters prize money earned last week with the golfer keeping around €1.75million of the prize.