A promising Gaelic football player before breaking his kneecap at the age of 18, McGinley turned to golf and the rest is history.

Turned professional in 1991, joined the European Tour in 1992 and won the first of four titles in 1996.

Made the first of three consecutive Ryder Cup appearances in 2002, holing a ten-foot putt on the 18th hole at The Belfry to secure victory for Europe. Vice captain in 2010 and 2012, was then named Captain for the 2014 competition, guiding Europe to victory at Gleneagles.

Won the Seve Trophy, Royal Trophy and World Cup.

A member of the European Tour's Tournament Committee and Board of Directors.