World No. 1 Rory McIlroy found himself stood up and without any Pro-Am partners ahead of tomorrow’s starting Irish Open at Royal County Down in Northern Ireland.

McIlroy and his three American-born amateur partners had been due to tee up at 8.20am but there was only McIlroy on the tee.

He was then introduced to a big crowd gathered around the opening hole but was heard to remark, and with no sign of his playing partners.

“Do you really want me to tee up,” said McIlroy.

“Where is my pro-am patners?” Rory McIlroy standing around with his hands in his pocket wondering where are his three Pro-Am partners. (Photo – Eoin Clarke/www.golffile.ie)

McIlroy decided against hitting off and stood around for many minutes with his hands in his pockets and twirling his driver.

He then walked over to a grandstand and remarked:  “Would anyone like a game of golf?”

Finally after some 10 minutes two of his partners teed-up and with McIlroy commenting:  “No hurry guys, no hurry.  Take your time.”

The three amateurs paid $160,000 at a Rory McIlroy Foundation gala dinner the night before for the privilege of joining the four-time Major winner.