Golf

McIlroy begins legal action against Horizon

ESPN staff

October 15, 2013

'McIlroy needs to win'

Rory McIlroy has launched legal action against his former management company, Horizon Sports.

McIlroy alleges in court papers he was misled by the organisation and its leading agent, Conor Ridge, who were "primarily concerned with maximising their own share of any commission".

It is believed the 24-year-old, who has since set up his own management company, views Horizon's fees - said to be £6.4 million over an 18 month period - are excessive and is trying to recover £5.9 million of it.

Lawyers for Horizon have said they plan to file a counter claim. A trial date is scheduled for October next year.

The court papers also claim McIlroy signed his contract with Dublin-based Horizon at the company's Christmas party "in circumstances of great informality" and without having seen a draft of the agreement before it was given to him to sign.

McIlroy also alleges Horizon paid children's charity UNICEF £100,000 of his money in March without his knowledge or consent.

Rumours have also been rife this week that McIlroy has split from his girlfriend of two years, tennis star Caroline Wozniacki, in a bid to regain his form on the course.

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ESPN staff