Earlier this week, the CBS reporter shared her departure from golf in a social media post as she prepares to transition to a new role following her final golf event coverage of the 2024 season. Balionis is among the most renowned faces in golf reporting, yet she is gearing up for a move to reporting from the NFL sidelines imminently.
In her social media post, Balionis shared a compilation of snapshots featuring interviews with golfers and candid behind-the-scenes moments from her time covering the sport. Notably, the collection included images of McIlroy amidst whispers of their alleged earlier romantic link-up.
Speculation had been fuelled by news of McIlroy and his spouse Erica Stoll filing for divorce before later rescinding the decision.
Alongside her collection, Balionis wrote: "This year had it all. From historic moments to heart-shattering events and every other emotion you can imagine in between. I love this game. I love working in sports. Competing at the highest level requires and produces constant examples of inspiration, drama, unbridled joy, resilience, growth and teamwork."
"It's an honour to be a very small part of a tremendous team that brings these moments and stories to life each weekend. If we left you with one new favourite player, or one memorable moment you shared with loved ones then we have done our jobs. Catch ya on the NFL sidelines until next season!"
Balionis and McIlroy were rumoured to be in a romantic relationship when the Northern Irishman filed for divorce from his wife of seven years, Erica. Neither party commented on the rumours and those whispers were silenced when McIlroy announced he was not going ahead with the divorce.
There is nothing to suggest their relationship was anything more than just rumours.
The 39-year-old presenter married former North Carolina and Baltimore Ravens quarterback Bryn Renner in 2022 but has been seen without her wedding ring and has returned to using her maiden name.
Balionis had covered the NFL and college football before for CBS and has been a regular on the sidelines speaking to players and coaches throughout games over the years. She was known for the commentators throwing to her during the action to grab mid-game chats and exclusives with those at the heart of the action.
The reporter has posted a number of cryptic messages on social media recently, with some over-eager fans convinced they were aimed at McIlroy. Balionis had been on reporting duty when McIlroy missed the chance to break his major duck at the U.S. Open in June.
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