Rory McIlroy Splits with ISM to Join Horizon

Rory McIlroy, the reigning U.S. Open Champion and World's No. 3 golfer, has announced that he will split from International Sports Management (ISM) and sign with the Irish-based firm, Horizon Sports Management.

McIlroy will also be leaving his only manager in his pro career to this point in Andrew Chandler.

Better known in the golfing world is 'Chubby'.

A statement issued by ISM read, "Rory McIlroy has announced today, Friday October 21st, 2011, his decision to end his association with International Sports Management (ISM)."

"He has also announced he has joined Horizon Sports Management."

McIlroy himself added, "I would like to sincerely thank Chubby Chandler and his team for their guidance, representation and management over the past four years, since turning pro."

After learning of the news that he and ISM were losing McIlroy, Chandler responded, "Onward and upwards. We have had quite a brilliant year. The company is growing and adapting to ensure it stays at the forefront of golf and the business of managing players."

"We wish Rory every success."

McIlroy will be joining fellow Northern Irish players Graeme McDowell, Michael Hoey and Gareth Maybin singing on with Horizon.

The young Irish star still also has out standing contracts that were handled by ISM with Titleist, Rolex and Jumeirah Estates in Dubai.

These contracts will remain as they are though McIlroy is no longer with ISM.

McIlroy has made it rather clear he wants more exposure and playing time in the United States in his career.

Chandler, to some, is more of a pro European manager and this could have something to do with the split from ISM to Horizon.

Horizon Sports Management is a Dublin-based group currently ran by Conor Ridge.