In Northern Ireland more widely, tee times for the prime links courses of Royal Portrush and Royal County Down are already sold out for 2027.
Gary McNeill, head golf professional at Royal Portrush, attributes this to a range of factors, including McIlroy’s success and the club hosting The Open and Irish Open in recent years.
He added that Rory and other big names – like Darren Clarke, Graham McDowell and Pádraig Harrington – had played “a massive part” in large events coming to Northern Ireland.
“Whenever Rory wins something big, it really gives such a boost to the country and keeps the focus on golf in this country,” he added.
The Open at Portrush last year had a “magnificent atmosphere” and felt like “a homecoming” for McIlroy after his first Masters win, McNeill said.
“It gave all those who came to the championship to spectate the opportunity to congratulate Rory and cheer him on as well.”