Who is Rory McIlroy’s caddie?

Harry Diamond has been Rory McIlroy's caddie since 2017.

Get to know a bit more about Rory McIlroy’s caddie…

He is one of the most famous people in any sport, let alone golf, but who is Rory McIlroy’s caddie?

A caddie plays a vital role in the success of a player and McIlroy has had his long-time friend Harry Diamond on the bag for many years now.

McIlroy first hit the scene in a big way as a bushy-haired amateur at the 2007 Open. The 18-year-old from Holywood defied his years to shoot a three-under 68 at Carnoustie and sit in a tie for third at the close of play on day one at the game’s oldest championship.

Although a title challenge wouldn’t materialise, the teenager went on to win the silver medal for low amateur and leave a mark on those who had witnessed the start of a special career.

He turned pro shortly after and employed experienced looper JP Fitzgerald in 2008.

McIlroy and Fitzgerald spent nine successful years together, winning four majors and several other big trophies in that time, while he also became the world No. 1.

However, the pair parted ways in August 2017 in a move few expected.

McIlroy then turned to Diamond to take over duties in the interim while he considered potential long-term replacements and they have been together ever since.

McIlroy and Diamond both played at Holywood Golf Club as budding juniors. While McIlroy went on to make his mark in the pro ranks, Diamond enjoyed a distinguished amateur career, representing Ireland and earning a spot in the 2012 Irish Open after winning the West of Ireland Championship.

McIlroy and Diamond have won three Race to Dubai titles, two FedEx Cups, two Players Championships and an Arnold Palmer Invitational, among many other victories.

But on several occasions, McIlroy has been forced to defend Diamond from critics, who have blamed the caddie for his ongoing major drought which extends back to the 2014 PGA Championship.

It was most notable at the 2024 US Open, when McIlroy missed short putts at the 16th and 18th in the final round at Pinehurst to lose by a shot to Bryson DeChambeau. 

Responding to those comments, McIlroy said: “Just because Harry is not as vocal or loud with his words as other caddies, it doesn’t mean that he doesn’t say anything and that he doesn’t do anything. These guys that criticise when things don’t go my way, they never say anything good when things do go my way.

“Where were they when I won Dubai or Quail Hollow, or the two FedEx Cups that I’ve won with Harry, or the two Ryder Cups, or whatever? They are never there to say Harry did such a great job when I win, but they are always there to criticise when we don’t win. 

“At the end of the day, they are not there. They are in the in the arena. They are not the ones hitting the shots and making the decisions.”