Rory: The Heartache and Triumph of Golf's Most Human Superstar

by Alan Shipnuck

An Avid Reader Press book. Simon & Schuster has a great book for every reader.

320 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication April 7, 2026

Reviews

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley -- I needed a book that reminded me of spring, summer, and the outdoors. This bio on Rory hit the spot. As a golf fan that grew up in the Tiger era to then see Rory, I really enjoyed this trip down memory lane. I had forgotten about his struggles and the sidebar antics that made him both a target and hero to others. The book also does a great job highlighting how Rory has brought all fans into his orbit -- to an extent-- and shown us why we love sports so much (thrill of victory, agony of defeat, etc.)

While there isn’t the hook of the author’s previous bio on Phil Mickelson - LIV, Saudis, etc. he lays out the transformation of Rory from star in the making, to a star, then someone that was lost to only find redemption at last year’s Masters.

I appreciated hearing about his time growing up and how we approached the quest for normalcy with the fame and fortune of being an international superstar. His continued focus on sports psychology, swing changes, etc didnt shock me but at the end of the day it all came back to doing what was natural and trying to clear his head.

The author lays out scenes that you can almost close your eyes and remember them. As we look ahead to snow here, it makes me miss golf and count down the days until the Masters.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whether you are a golf fan or not, Rory has a story for the ages. When he came into the ranks at such a young age, there was so much pressure for him to perform. He had a quick start to his career and things just stalled. Rory won 4 majors in just 3 years and it took another 11 years to get his 4th major and Grand Slam. In those years, he had plenty of wins, but never could get the win at The Masters. This book does a great job going into his life from a young boy to his Masters win. I appreciated the detail the author went into in his life. I particularly liked the information on his agent and whole team around him. If you step back and think about it, Rory can be successful because of the entire team from his family, caddy, agent to lawyers.

If you enjoy golf or any general sports biographies, this one is for you. It’s fitting that this one is coming out during Maters week as everyone takes a look back to his win last year. His green jacket will be returned to Augusta, but this book gives that glimpse into the time it took to get it.

Thank you Net Galley, Alan Shipnuck and Avis Reader Press for the advanced copy for my honest review.

On the Cat Scale:
😺😺😺😸

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this. It was a little slow at first, but then it offered some great insight into who and what Rory is all about. I, like so many people, was riveted by his Masters win and enjoyed getting a new perspective on the buildup and after effects of that. Even if you’re not a “Roryologist” (love that term) you’ll still enjoy this one. Thanks for the ARC, NetGalley!

[Stuart Shiffman · Rating 3 out of 5]

My review will appear later this month on Bookreporter.com