McIlroy dumped Wozniacki because relationship was a distraction: Report

Golfer Rory McIlroy may have publicly told the world he was calling off his wedding to tennis star Caroline Wozniacki at an awkward press conference, but the fickle Irishman left a lot of questions about his sudden change of heart at the dais.

Now sources say McIlroy abruptly called things off with his Danish fiancee partly because his personal life was affecting his game, reports Page Six of the N.Y. Post.

"Rory’s game hasn’t been as consistently good in the time he’s been with Caroline," said the source. "He was a young guy in love and was flying around the world to see her play in tournaments or meet up with her. He was missing practice rounds. It was a distraction.

"When you have two players focused on being No. 1, it’s a huge commitment to see each other, physically and emotionally," added the source. "As tough as the decision to end the relationship might have been, it is wise to do it now rather than after they were married."

The source added that McIlroy’s personal life was further complicated by his legal battle with his former management company, a dispute that has been hanging over him for much of the season.

Another source said of McIlroy’s performance in the Players Championship earlier this month, "He is one of the most talented golfers out there, but his game was erratic."

The glamorous sports couple had been dating since 2011. They were engaged on New Year’s Eve. McIlroy said on Wednesday that he had broken up with her days after wedding invitations had gone out.

"The problem is mine. The wedding invitations issued at the weekend made me realize that I wasn’t ready for all that marriage entails,” McIlroy said. He later said the decision was “mutual…it was the best for both of us."

A tennis source said the timing of their split was tough for Wozniacki since she is competing in the French Open, which starts in Paris on Sunday.

Reps for McIlroy and Wozniacki could not be reached for comment.