Rory McIlroy took time out of his busy schedule to attend the final round of the Senior Open Championship at Sunningdale, England, demonstrating his deep passion for the sport.

His friend, Padraig Harrington, secured a three-stroke victory in Berkshire, England, earning his third senior major title. By fending off Justin Leonard and Thomas Bjorn, he joined an elite group of only five golfers who have won both the Open and Senior Open.

McIlroy, fresh from tying for seventh place at The Open Championship at Royal Portrush, lives just three miles away from Sunningdale. He recently moved into a newly constructed mansion on the Wentworth estate with his wife, Erica Stoll.

After back-to-back weeks at the Scottish Open and The Open Championship, McIlroy enjoyed a well-earned break in the south of France. Social media clips revealed him having a great time in St. Tropez.

When fans asked about the whereabouts of the Green Jacket from his Masters win, McIlroy, holding a wine glass and surrounded by lively music, cheerfully announced: “It’s on the yacht.”

Despite having had an eventful few weeks, McIlroy, upon returning to England, chose to spend his Sunday at Sunningdale, keenly observing the finale of the Senior Open. The 36-year-old was more than happy to pose for pictures with fans outside the Sunningdale clubhouse upon his arrival.

The Northern Irishman, a genuine traditionalist of the sport, treasures residing close to Sunningdale, among the world’s most prestigious golf venues. His move to the English countryside, just under 10 minutes from the course, signifies he’ll spend considerably less time at his family’s Florida home, where they’ve lived recently.

McIlroy’s position regarding senior tour participation remains striking. He declared earlier this year that he cannot envision himself competing on the over-50s circuit once his prime career concludes.

“Look, I’ve said a lot of absolutes in my time that I’ve walked back, but I do not envision playing Champions Tour golf,” he declared. “Something has gone terribly wrong if I have to compete at golf at 50.”

Harrington catapulted himself to the summit at Sunningdale following back-to-back 65s on Friday and Saturday, with the 53-year-old commanding proceedings as he navigated his closing round. Despite posting those remarkable numbers, Harrington remained unsatisfied with his ball-striking.

“I don’t feel very good about how I’m hitting the ball,” he confessed on Saturday. “So I am trying to get away from that and not worry so much about that because clearly I’m scoring well.

“Better off shooting 13-under par and not feeling so good about it than thinking you’re swinging it great and being level par. So I just need to go out and play and try golf tomorrow. Hit the right shot at the right time and not necessarily try and play swing.”

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