Rory McIlroy has become the fourth person in history to defend his Masters title and it may be those rounds of golf with Celtic board member Dermot Desmond that helped.
McIlroy defeat Justin Rose in a tense final round to keep the green blazer and become a six-time major winner.
The Masters champion admitted he isn’t a fan of Celtic when asked to pick between the Hoops and Rangers, but he is aware of Desmond, and has even shared the course with him.
Do you think Dermot Desmond would really consider selling his Celtic shares?
How does Rory McIlroy know Dermot Desmond?
The pair have developed a close personal relationship over the years, with the golfer often spending time within the same social and business circles as the largest minority shareholder at Parkhead.
They can often be spotted together at Pro-Am events and were seen at the K Club ahead of the Irish Open in September 2025 together.
Both also have a membership at the infamous Queenwood Golf Club in Surrey.
High-profile Celtic supporters with links to Dermot Desmond
Desmond’s influence at Celtic has brought him into contact with a number of high-profile supporters over the years. Figures such as Rod Stewart and Sir Kenny Dalglish have long-standing ties to the club and have moved within similar social and sporting circles
Stewart in particular is usually at Parkhead for the big occasions and spotted chatting to Desmond, whenever he chooses to show up.
The chances are you’ll find him on the golf course than in the stands, but many celebrity Hoops fans have a connection to Desmond in some form.
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