22 June 2011 Last updated at 06:05 ET

Holywood celebration for Rory McIlroy later

The new US Open champion arrives at Belfast City Airport

Preparations are in place for a homecoming celebration for Northern Ireland golfer Rory McIlroy later, following his US Open victory.

The 22-year-old arrived back in Northern Ireland on Tuesday night.

His home golf club in Holywood, County Down, is due to welcome him back at a special event later.

McIlroy's victory followed that of his compatriot, Graeme McDowell, who clinched the US Open title last year.

As soon as he arrived at his home in Holywood, McIlroy began tweeting.

Among his first messages was: "Great to be back home. Even nicer to have this (the US Open trophy) on my kitchen table!"

Following his emphatic victory in Maryland on Sunday, McIlroy is now ranked fourth in the world.

McIlroy broke a series of records as he won his first major title on 16 below par, giving him an eight-shot victory over his nearest opponent.

He has been congratulated by several leading figures in the sporting world.

The youngest US Open champion since Bobby Jones in 1923, he said said he had set his sights on winning more majors after his maiden triumph in Maryland.