McIlroy quits Chandler’s ISM to pursue new Horizon

The most dramatic year in Rory McIlroy’s young life took another twist yesterday when it was announced he was parting company with the International Sports Management stable that includes Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke.

The 22-year-old US Open champion, currently the world number three, has decided to link up with Ryder Cup partner Graeme McDowell at Dublin-based Horizon.

“I am keen to move onto the next stage of my career and I feel this will be facilitated by a fresh view and a new structure around me,” McIlroy said in a statement. “I am delighted to be joining Horizon and I look forward to working with my new team.

“I would like to sincerely thank Andrew ‘Chubby’ Chandler and his team for their guidance, representation and management over the past four years since turning pro.

“Chubby and his team have played a very important role in my success to date. I have made great progress under their management and for that I will always be grateful.”

Chandler was with McIlroy in Bermuda this week for the Grand Slam of Golf, which featured two more of his clients – Open champion Clarke and Masters winner Charl Schwartzel. Having lost Ernie Els from the stable only a month ago, Chandler said yesterday: “Onward and upwards. We have had a quite brilliant year. The company is growing and adapting to ensure it stays at the forefront of golf and the business of managing players. We wish Rory every success.”

The company’s statement added: “It has been an honour representing Rory and we take great pride in the role ISM has played in guiding him successfully through his formative years as a professional golfer.”

McIlroy, who travelled to Bermuda from China and will be back in Shanghai for the next two weeks, has had Chandler by his side since he tuned pro after winning the silver medal as leading amateur in The Open at Carnoustie four years ago.