‘I was Rory McIlroy’s caddie at the Masters – I couldn’t stop shaking’ | Golf | Sport
Rory McIlroy made history once more at the Masters (Image: Getty)
Former One Direction member Niall Horan was gripped by anxiety when serving as Rory McIlroy’s caddie at the Masters. The celebrity pairing joined forces for the customary Par Three Contest at Augusta National over a decade ago.
McIlroy ended his torturous wait for a Masters crown with a thrilling play-off triumph in 2025. The 36-year-old rejoiced in completing his career Grand Slam at Augusta and secured a second title this year. Having stormed into an astonishing six-stroke advantage at the conclusion of day two, McIlroy witnessed his challengers narrow the gap as the Masters progressed.
However, he maintained his position at the top and became just the fourth golfer to successfully defend the championship, with his loyal caddie Harry Diamond also collecting a substantial windfall.
McIlroy has previously shown a more relaxed side of his character during the Par Three Contest, which takes place the day before the Masters commences. The nine-hole competition has been held since 1960 and serves as an opportunity for players to ease their pre-tournament jitters, often caddied by relatives.
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In 2015, McIlroy was accompanied on the course by One Direction star Niall, allowing the passionate golf enthusiast to step forward and take a shot during his round. The globally renowned pop icon was familiar with performing on major stages but experienced a distinct form of pressure as he hit his ball into the water at Augusta.
The musician caddied for McIlroy (Image: Getty)
In an interview with ESPN, Horan recently recalled the experience: “It was very nerve-wracking, actually. I didn’t think, I thought it would just be me carrying a bag, having a laugh with Rory. But there’s a lot of people out there on those days.
“The Par Three is such an amazing day. There’s nothing like it in sport. It’s just a special day for the players, their families, people like myself getting involved.
“You see there, my hands were literally shaking. I pulled it into the water. It wasn’t my best golf, I’m not going to lie!”
During his brief stint as a caddie, Horan found himself at the heart of another unforgettable moment. The 32-year-old took a tumble just before a television interview, with footage quickly spreading across social media, though it failed to diminish the singer’s enthusiasm.
Horan sent his ball into the water at the Masters (Image: Getty)
“It’s just great to be at Augusta,” Horan told Sky Sports at the time. “I knew about a year ago I had the time off to come to the Masters.
“Then I met this man (McIlroy) and he asked me, ‘Did I want to carry the bag on Wednesday?’ Of course, if the world No 1 asks you to carry his bag, you carry it!”
Reflecting on playing golf before such a substantial crowd, he added: “I can’t say I’ve been that nervous in a long time! It was tough, but it was alright! It’s great to be around Rory. It’s a big week for him and hopefully come Sunday he’ll have a Green Jacket on his back.”
It would take a further decade before McIlroy finally claimed the coveted Green Jacket, though it was arguably worth every moment. The 36-year-old has pulled out of the upcoming RBC Heritage as he takes some time away following his sixth major title victory.
