Masters winner Rory McIlroy refused to invest in Leeds United because of one condition

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Rory McIlroy is enjoying life as a Masters winner right now.

McIlroy defeated Justin Rose in a tense play-off to win the coveted green jacket at Augusta after 14 years of trying.

The Northern Irishman also loves his football and like many other sports stars, has had the chance to dip into the beautiful game.

We’ve got Tom Brady working with Birmingham City and then Championship high-flyers Burnley have JJ Watt among their ranks.

But, when the opportunity to invest in Leeds United came around, McIlroy had to turn it down for one very simple reason.

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Rory McIlroy rejected chance to invest in Leeds United due to love for Man United

When the 49ers Enterprises completed a £170m takeover of Leeds in July 2023, McIlroy was one of the golfing stars who was asked to join forces.

However, in an interview with the BBC in October 2, he admitted that his heart wouldn’t allow him to work with the Yorkshire side due to his love for Manchester United.

He said: “Sports stars are becoming more savvy and really trying to use their money in the right way.

“They asked me if I wanted to come on board and I was like, as a Man Utd fan, can’t go anywhere near that.”

Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas are co-owners of Leeds alongside Will Ferrell

Even though McIlroy turned down a stake at Elland Road, there are still plenty of A-list stars who have a role to play in the club.

Fellow golf stars Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth are among those involved but the biggest name of all is Hollywood actor Will Ferrell.

Often seen at games, Ferrell has even sported a Leeds shirt at some of the biggest events in the world such as Coachella music festival.

NBA star Larry Nance is also a part-owner of the Whites and the Atlanta Hawks star has been a lifetime supporter.