In a shock move Rory McIlroy has terminated his association with ISM and signed with Irish-based Horizon Sports Management.
In a statement released by ISM says the current U.S. Open champion and World No. 3 left on ‘amicable’ terms.
However the news is a big blow to the Manchester based ISM that also recently saw the departure of triple Major winning, Ernie Els.
McIlroy, 22 is one of golf’s most exciting young stars and now joins the likes of fellow Northern Irishman and fellow U.S. Open champion, Graeme McDowell at Horizon Sports.
Chandler, who also looks after the business affairs of World No. 2 Lee Westwood along with Open Champion’s Darren Clarke and Louis Oosthuizen plus reigning Augusta titleholder, Charl Schwartzel.
Rory McIlroy in shock split from ISM (Photo - www.golffile.ie)
McIlroy turned professional straight after the 2007 Walker Cup at Royal County Down.
McIlroy’s departure was effective after McIlroy competed against Clarke, Schwartzel and PGA champion Keegan Bradley at the PGA Grand Slam of Golf in Bermuda.
Chandler, who was in attendance in Bermuda, commented in the company’s statement: “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.
“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.
“‘Under our management he has grown into an international figure and he leaves us as a Major Champion.
“ISM prides itself on putting the athlete first. In golf this has enabled our players to achieve unprecedented success with Rory joining Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel and Darren Clarke as a major winner and Lee Westwood at the summit of the world rankings.
“ISM continues to go from strength to strength, its dedicated team of professionals providing our clients with world-class support across the globe. We look forward to even more success in the years ahead.”
McIlroy had yet to comment either in person, in a statement or via his Twitter site.
He travelled to Bermuda from China and was heading to Turkey for a few days to catch-up with new girlfriend, Caoline Wozinack competing in the Istanbul Masters.
McIlroy will return to China next for for two events in Shanghai. He is contesting next week’s Shanghai Masters at Lake Maclaren and the chance to scoop the richest ever first prize in golf of £1.25million.
He then is remaining the Chinese financial hub for the following week’s $US 7m WGC – HSBC Champions event.
ISMs Andrew ‘Chubby’ Chandler has been at McIlroy’s side since he joined the paid ranks after winning the silver medal as leading amateur in The Open at Carnoustie four years ago.
