Over the last few years Rory McIlroy has become renowned across the globe as one of the current top players in men's golf and a true gentleman of the game, with his sportsmanship and love of golf appreciated by both fans and fellow. players.

The same applies in America where McIlroy is a fan favorite with US audiences and is often favored to win major championships. He also made occasional appearances on the showbiz circuit.

Back in 2012 McIlroy joined Jimmy Fallon on Late Night and captivated the audience with his wit and charm.

Fresh off two consecutive victories in the FedEx Cup playoffs, the 23-year-old told Fallon how he first picked up the game in Northern Ireland, his friendship with Tiger Woods and the upcoming Ryder Cup. McIlroy is now beating his childhood hero, Tiger Woods and loves it.

"I see you getting paired a lot with Tiger Woods when you're on the course," Fallon said. "You've said in a bunch of interviews that you look up to this guy -- this is the guy you grew up with. And now you're beating him. You're playing against him and you're winning. Is it weird?"

"It might be weird for him," McIlroy said with a laugh, "I think it's great."

McIlroy was only 22 years old when he first really entered American public consciousness and won his first U.S. Open in 2011, setting the standards higher than ever for future U.S. Open championships. His score of 268 set a record for the lowest 72-hole total—a record previously held by two Americans, Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus.

Meanwhile, American legend Jack Nicklaus and McIlroy have formed a bond over their love and passion for the game.

''I didn't think it was going to happen again, and it has,'' Nicklaus said by telephone to NBC Sports. ''I think this kid's going to have a great career. I don't think there's any question about it. He's got all the components. He's got a lot of people rooting for him."

Americans chief among them!