This relationship has run its course. Professional golfer Rory McIlroy called off his engagement to tennis pro Caroline Wozniacki on Wednesday, May 21.
"The problem is mine," the two-time major winner announced in a statement. "The wedding invitations issued at the weekend made me realize that I wasn't ready for all that marriage entails." He added, "I wish Caroline all the happiness she deserves and thank her for the great times we've had. I will not be saying anything more about our relationship in any setting."
McIlroy, 25, proposed to Wozniacki, 23, on New Year's Eve in Sydney, Australia. The blonde tennis pro happily shared her engagement news with fans, gushing: "Happy New Year everyone! Rory and I started 2014 with a bang! … I said YES!!!!" The lovebirds planned to marry in November.
Speaking with reporters Wednesday at Wentworth Golf Club ahead of the BMW PGA Championship, an emotional McIlroy described the split as a mutual but tough decision. "It is quite a difficult time for Caroline and myself, and the statement really said it all this morning," McIlroy said per ESPN. "It was mutual, and we both thought it was the best for us, the best for both of us. Time to move on, and I've said all that I need to say."
"Look, I'm no different than anyone else," the Irish athlete added while fighting back tears during the press conference. "Everyone has been through breakups, and it's obviously very, very difficult. But look, I'm here to try and concentrate on this week and answer questions about golf, and that's what I'm going to do."
Sports analysts are speculating over how the breakup may affect McIlroy's game this week. "I'm not going to lie. It's going to be very difficult," McIlroy admitted. "But you know, at least when I get inside the ropes, just try and concentrate on the shot at hand. But yeah, it's obviously going to be difficult."
Wozniacki has yet to address the split. As of Wednesday afternoon, her Twitter profile still described her as, "Fiancée, daughter, sister, tennisplayer. Mother to our dog Bruno."
