In a remarkable turn of events at the 2026 Masters Tournament, Rory McIlroy secured his sixth major title, with his longtime caddie and childhood friend, Harry Diamond, by his side. The tournament took place at the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia, on April 12, 2026.
McIlroy’s victory came with a record winner’s share of $4.5 million, which means that Diamond is expected to receive approximately $450,000 from this payout. Caddies typically earn around 10% of their player’s prize money for major wins, making this a significant financial milestone for Diamond.
Harry Diamond has been an integral part of McIlroy’s journey since they met as young boys at their local golf club in Holywood, Northern Ireland. Diamond became McIlroy’s full-time caddie in 2017, replacing J.P. Fitzgerald, and has been known for his loyalty and calm presence on the course.
McIlroy expressed his deep appreciation for Diamond, stating, “I’ve known Harry since I was seven years old.” He added, “To be able to share this with him after all the close calls that we’ve had… this one is just as much his as it is mine.” This sentiment highlights the strong bond they share, both personally and professionally.
In addition to his role as a caddie, Diamond has also been a significant figure in McIlroy’s life, serving as the best man at his wedding in 2017. Their friendship has been a cornerstone of McIlroy’s career, and this latest victory only solidifies that connection.
With this win, McIlroy became the fourth player in history to win back-to-back Masters titles, a feat that underscores his exceptional talent and determination. The total purse for the 2026 Masters Tournament was $22.5 million, reflecting the growing prestige and financial stakes of the event.
Shane Lowry, a fellow golfer, remarked, “There is no caddie in the world that would be better for Rory than Harry Diamond,” emphasizing the respect and admiration that Diamond commands within the golfing community.
As McIlroy celebrated his victory, he humorously noted, “I can’t believe I waited 17 years to get one Green Jacket and I get two in a row.” This light-hearted comment reflects the joy and relief that comes with achieving such a significant milestone in his career.
As the golfing world continues to celebrate McIlroy’s achievement, the role of Harry Diamond as a steadfast supporter and caddie remains a focal point of discussion. Their enduring friendship and professional partnership exemplify the importance of teamwork in achieving success in sports.