IRELAND FLAGBEARER Paddy Barnes is in flying form this week – and he’s knocked lots of caric out of trolling Rory McIlroy.
Barnes has been among the stronger critics of McIlroy after the former world number one confirmed he would not travel to Brazil, citing fears over the Zika virus and his belief that major championships carry greater importance in golf than the Olympics.
McIlroy has since been taunted on Twitter by Barnes on several occasions, but the latter – a two-time Olympic bronze medallist – found a new angle after carrying Ireland’s flag at Friday’s opening ceremony.
The following day, Barnes shared a picture that showed him posing alongside Denmark flagbearer Wozniacki, whose engagement to McIlroy was broken off by the four-time major winner in May 2014.
On Friday, another member of Ireland’s boxing team, Michael Conlan, had posted a picture of himself with golfer Rickie Fowler, accompanied by a caption that also mocked McIlroy’s decision to skip the Olympics.
Barnes had said last month that McIlroy was “talking s***” when explaining his reasoning for missing the Games.
“It’s just a money thing and I’d have more respect for them [golfers] if they came out and told the truth,” said Barnes, in reference to the various players who will not participate in golf’s return to the Olympics after a 112-year absence.
A fantastic hurling man that will be missed by all true Hurling people, RIP Johnny
Very sad day for the faithful County.deepest sympathises to he’s daughters,grandson extended family and close friends,a supreme stick man,great character and a gentleman.
Very sad news to hear.condolences to his family and friends and a massive thank you for all the memories,and all you done for Offaly hurling.RIP
May the great referee when he calls my name say, you hurled like a man, you played the game – rest easy Johnny.