Try-ing times! Sports mad Niall Horan goes on an emotional rollercoaster as he watches the rugby in Dublin with golfing pal Rory McIlroy

He reportedly set up a golf firm in February following the announcement that One Direction would be putting their music careers on hold. 

So it's no surprise that Niall Horan was spotted enjoying some time with sporting superstar Rory McIlroy, at the rugby on Friday.

The 22-year-old put on an animated display as he watched the Leinster vs Ulster game unfold and got so emotionally involved in the match that he struggled to contain his rollercoaster of emotions.

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Common interests: Niall Horan was spotted enjoying some time with sporting superstar Rory McIlroy at the rugby on Friday

Common interests: Niall Horan was spotted enjoying some time with sporting superstar Rory McIlroy at the rugby on Friday

The sports-mad singer cut a casual figure for the Pro12 semi-final in Dublin and decided to show his full support for Leinster in a royal blue team top that he zipped up all the way to the top.

The 1D star also showed off his more manly side as he exhibited just a hint of five o'clock shadow, rather than his usual clean-shaven look.

And he made sure that he had the best view of proceedings as he donned a pair of thick-rimmed round glasses that stood out against his platinum locks. 

Time of his life: The 22-year-old put on an animated display as he watched the Leinster vs Ulster game unfold

Time of his life: The 22-year-old put on an animated display as he watched the Leinster vs Ulster game unfold

Ups and downs: Niall got so emotionally involved in the match that he struggled to contain his roller-coaster of emotions

Ups and downs: Niall got so emotionally involved in the match that he struggled to contain his roller-coaster of emotions

Super fan: The sports mad singer cut a casual figure for the Pro12 semi-final in Dublin and decided to show his full support for Leinster in a royal blue team top

Super fan: The sports mad singer cut a casual figure for the Pro12 semi-final in Dublin and decided to show his full support for Leinster in a royal blue team top

But despite his off-duty style, Niall couldn't resist sweeping his blonde tresses up into his trademark boy-band quiff.

Meanwhile, Rory looked equally laid back for the event in a grey Nike hooded top that was embellished with black detailing around the hood, chest and sleeves. 

He also seemed to get heavily involved in the game as he cheered and even gave the players a standing ovation. 

Mature: The 1D star also showed off his more manly side as he exhibited just a hint of five o'clock shadow, rather than his usual clean-shaven look

Mature: The 1D star also showed off his more manly side as he exhibited just a hint of five o'clock shadow, rather than his usual clean-shaven look

Seeing clearly: Niall made sure that he had the best view of proceedings as he donned a pair of thick-rimmed round glasses that stood out against his platinum locks

Seeing clearly: Niall made sure that he had the best view of proceedings as he donned a pair of thick-rimmed round glasses that stood out against his platinum locks

Still got it! Despite his off-duty style, Niall couldn't resist sweeping his blonde tresses up into his trademark boy-band quiff

Still got it! Despite his off-duty style, Niall couldn't resist sweeping his blonde tresses up into his trademark boy-band quiff

Niall is reported to have set up Modest Golf Management, in a bid to seek British and Irish talent with the help of 1D’s management, Modest. 

The pop sensation - who has previously acted as caddie to golfing legend Rory McIlroy - has reportedly also roped in Mark McDonnel, a former account manager at equipment brand TaylorMade, in the new project.

Speaking to The Sun, a source said: ‘It’s well known Niall loves golf and has been learning from the best out on tour with Rory.

Casual chic: Rory looked equally laid back for the event in a grey Nike hooded top that was embellished with black detailing around the hood, chest and sleeves

Casual chic: Rory looked equally laid back for the event in a grey Nike hooded top that was embellished with black detailing around the hood, chest and sleeves

'Now he wants to discover exciting new players and give them his backing.

‘Mark is an absolute legend in the industry and will help him with endorsement. It’s early days but he’s committed.’ 

Last year, Niall suffered an unfortunate slip as he carried Rory’s golf clubs up a muddy slope during the 2015 Masters Tournament at Augusta National golf club. 

Living the dream: The pop sensation has previously acted as caddie to golfing legend Rory McIlroy

Living the dream: The pop sensation has previously acted as caddie to golfing legend Rory McIlroy

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