Rory McIlroy's dad scoops £180,000 after betting son would earn Open glory by 26

Rory McIlroy's father Gerry has earned £180,000 from the bookies after betting that his son would win the Open Championship before the age of 26.

The former world number one golfer triumphed at Hoylake on Sunday by two shots to claim his third major title.

When the sportsman was a teenager, his father and a group of three friends are said to have placed £100 each on a 500/1 bet that Rory, now 25, would win the Open before his 26th birthday.

Following his victory bookmakers Ladbrokes tweeted: "CONGRATULATIONS RORY: We're paying out 180k to Rory's Dad and pals. There'll be some party at the McIlroy's tonight!"

McIlroy's father and his friends are said to have picked up £45,000 each after taxes.