Rory McIlroy gives young fan way more meaningful souvenir than that $11.5 million golf ball

Earlier this year, the Holywood native caught fire at East Lake Golf Club to bank an incredible $11.53 million in one day. He looked destined to come up short against the rest of the course, but McIlroy saved his best for the back nine where he secured a round of a 64 and a spot in a three-way play-off against Ryan Moore and Kevin Chappell. He ultimately won the dramatic play-off to claim the FedExCup and the Tour Championships, which banked him prize money of $1.5m and $10m respectively.

The shot that really kicked him into overdrive that fateful day was his sensational eagle on the 16th hole where he found the cup from 137 yards. McIlroy could not contain his joy when that ball dropped in the hole and after that, there was a feeling that he was going to be unstoppable for the remainder of the day. He celebrated sinking the shot by throwing the ball into the stands where it was caught by a young golf fan named Brady. The youngster was clearly thrilled with the souvenir and he and his family penned a letter to the golfer to show their admiration. With all the fan mail McIlroy must get, he still found the time to read Brady's letter and write back to him. His response was nothing short of heartwarming.

"Hi Brady.

"I hope you are keeping well. I just want to thank you for coming to watch me at the Tour Championship. I also believe you were able to get the ball I threw into the spectators after my eagle on 16. Very well done! That shot turned the tournament in my favour and helped me to eventually win this year's FedEx Cup. "I'm so glad that somebody young was able to get it before an adult! I hope that ball and this short letter remind you that I have always wanted young people to do well in life. It may be at school, playing sport or even just being with your family, but doing your best is really what's most important."