Rory McIlroy once tipped a fellow Brit to outshine him in the professional ranks, but he ended up falling by the wayside. The Northern Irishman is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation, only sitting behind Scottie Scheffler in the world rankings. Earlier this year, he became the sixth male golfer to complete a career Grand Slam by winning the Masters.
It was clear from the early part of McIlroy's career that he was going to be a future star. At just 18 years old, he won the silver medal for best amateur golfer at Carnoustie and reached number one in the World Amateur Golf Rankings a year earlier. While he has exceeded expectations since turning professional, the same cannot be said for one of his former peers.
Stay up-to-date with the latest golf news Join us on WhatsApp
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Last year, McIlroy revealed that he thought Oliver Fisher would have a 'much better career' than him given the hype surrounding the Englishman when they were both amateurs.
Speaking to Normal Sport, McIlroy said: "There’s so many intangibles in golf that some guys looked like world leaders at an early age. I tell you another one is Oliver Fisher.
"So Ollie Fisher and I were the two best amateurs coming out of the UK and Ireland. He played Walker Cup, the one before I did. Got his tour card right away. And then, same thing, sort of on and off the European Tour.
Fisher showed huge promise but never delivered on his potential (Image: GETTY)
"He’s won a couple of European Tour events but if you would have asked anyone 20 years ago, everyone would have said Ollie Fisher was probably going to go on to have a better career than I’ve had."
Fisher was unable to capitalise on his junior success, having failed to get anywhere close to McIlroy's level. Now aged 36, he has struggled for consistency over the years and is ranked outside the world's top 2,500 golfers.
He now provides commentary and analysis for Sky Sports and has previously spoken about the differences between himself and McIlroy.
"Having got my card at the age of 18, it’s fair to say I had very different expectations to what I have achieved," said Fisher.
"There have been times when I’ve really struggled. You quickly realise there’s an awful lot more that goes into doing well out here than simply hitting the ball. It took me a while to get to grips with all that’s involved in becoming a good player.
"The obvious difference between us now is his consistency, but the thing I most admire about him is his perspective. He’ll have bad rounds or even bad tournaments but he’ll get on with his life and then come out the next week and win."