Rory McIlroy joked that his wife, Erica Stoll, can punch him if he ever complains about wearing his Masters green jacket. The 36-year-old revealed in a recent CNBC Council Forum interview that the jacket which he earned after winning the 2025 Masters, has been traveling with him on the DP World Tour and sometimes wearing it can feel like a chore.

Rory McIlroy completed his career Grand Slam with his fifth major at Augusta National in April, defeating Justin Rose in a playoff after both finished at 11-under through 72 holes. He became only the sixth golfer in history to win all four majors and the first since Tiger Woods in 2000. His wife and daughter were present to witness the special moment.

“I was in India a few weeks ago and I was in the Middle East the last two weeks, and most places you go, if you’re doing events, the people want to see the green jacket. So you bring the green jacket with you, and sometimes you don’t want to wear it, you know? You don’t want to. I sort of complained about wearing it in Abu Dhabi,” McIlroy said.

“I said to my wife, Erica, if you ever hear me complain about wearing this thing again, like punch me or do something, because I’ve waited my whole life to wear this, and I’m complaining about wearing it.”

Rory McIlroy married Erica Stoll in 2017 and she frequently supports him during tournaments. She drew attention during the 2025 Ryder Cup after facing heckling from the crowd, including an incident on Saturday at Bethpage Black when a beverage was thrown in her direction.

Rory McIlroy’s wife Erica Stoll could soon earn a new title

Rory McIlroy’s wife, Erica Stoll, may soon be formally addressed as Lady Erica if her husband receives a knighthood following his standout 2025 season. The Northern Irishman’s victory at the Masters in April completed his career Grand Slam and added to an already impressive year.

He also won four other tournaments, claimed a Ryder Cup on the road, and secured his seventh Race to Dubai title. These accomplishments have made a strong case for him to receive one of golf’s highest honours. Rory McIlroy has spoken openly about the possibility, saying:

“If that were ever to happen, it would be an unbelievably massive honor. That’s obviously up to people a lot more powerful and important than me. But I mean, if it were to happen one day, it would be a very proud moment in my life.”

Only two other British golfers, Sir Nick Faldo and Sir Henry Cotton, have ever been awarded a knighthood. Faldo has six major titles, the most among British players.