Rory McIlroy believes that his recent triumph at the Scottish Open, played in challenging “links golf conditions,” has provided him with the perfect preparation for this week’s prestigious event, The Open. The Northern Irishman, who previously claimed the Claret Jug at Royal Liverpool in 2014, aims to end his nine-year major title drought.
Expressing his satisfaction, McIlroy told Sport News Center NI, “I couldn’t have asked for better preparation. The way I finished the last two holes was incredible and an ideal way to enter this week.”
Last Sunday, the final round of the Scottish Open was rescheduled to the morning due to the threat of thunderstorms and high winds. Despite the testing conditions on the East Lothian coast, east of Edinburgh, McIlroy secured victory by birdieing the final two holes at the Renaissance Club. His remarkable low 200-yard shot against the wind set up the winning birdie, allowing him to edge out local favorite Bob MacIntyre by a single stroke.
Reflecting on his performance, the 34-year-old added, “Having played the last two holes the way I did, I can draw upon that memory in the coming months and seasons, knowing that I can succeed even under the most challenging circumstances.”
Returning to Royal Liverpool, where he claimed his third major title, marks a significant moment for McIlroy. His victory in July 2014 made him the first European golfer to win three different major championships and the third player, alongside Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods, to achieve three majors before turning 25.
Following that success, McIlroy secured his second US PGA Championship a month later, prompting the legendary Nicklaus to remark, “I think Rory has an opportunity to win 15 or 20 majors.” However, despite subsequent victories on the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, McIlroy has been unable to add to his major tally.
The gap of eight years and 347 days between his 2014 US PGA triumph and this year’s Open at Hoylake puts McIlroy among the 10 players with the longest intervals between major victories. Julius Boros holds the record with 11 years and nine days between his US Open wins in 1952 and 1963.
Despite consistent top-10 finishes in major tournaments since his last win, McIlroy remains determined to achieve success this year. Ranked second in the world, he stated, “I’ve had a fantastic nine years, winning numerous tournaments, but the four big ones have eluded me. Hopefully, I can change that this week.”
Returning to a major venue where he has previously tasted victory holds a special significance for McIlroy, although he humorously added, “It’s nice to come back, but it also makes you feel a bit old.”
In conclusion, Rory McIlroy’s recent victory at the Scottish Open, played in challenging conditions, has provided him with excellent preparation for The Open at Royal Liverpool. With his sights set on ending his major title drought, McIlroy aims to draw upon his past successes and capitalize on the familiar venue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about golf championships
Q: What tournament did Rory McIlroy win before The Open at Royal Liverpool?
A: Rory McIlroy won the Scottish Open in preparation for The Open at Royal Liverpool. He emerged victorious in challenging “links golf conditions” and sees it as perfect preparation for the upcoming major championship.
Q: How long has it been since Rory McIlroy’s last major victory?
A: Rory McIlroy’s last major victory was in 2014 at the US PGA Championship. As of now, it has been eight years and 347 days since that win.
Q: How many majors has Rory McIlroy won?
A: Rory McIlroy has won four major titles to date. His victories include the US Open (2011), The Open (2014), and two US PGA Championships (2012, 2014).
Q: What is the significance of Rory McIlroy’s previous win at Royal Liverpool?
A: Rory McIlroy’s victory at Royal Liverpool in 2014 marked his third major championship win and made him the first European golfer to win three different major titles. It also positioned him alongside Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods as one of the few players to achieve three majors before the age of 25.
Q: How has Rory McIlroy performed in recent major tournaments?
A: Rory McIlroy has consistently finished in the top 10 of major tournaments since his last major victory. In 2022, he recorded four top-10 finishes. He finished joint seventh at the US PGA Championship and was the runner-up at the US Open last month.
More about golf championships
- BBC Sport: Rory McIlroy says Scottish Open win ‘perfect preparation’
- The Open Championship
- Royal Liverpool Golf Club
- Rory McIlroy – Official Website
- Golf Channel: Rory McIlroy’s Major Championship Wins
5 comments
rory’s victory at royal liverpool in 2014 was epic! he’s got the skills to conquer any course. i’m excited to see him back there and hoping he adds another major title to his impressive collection.
can’t believe it’s been so long since rory’s last major win! but he’s always a strong contender, and his recent performance at the scottish open shows he’s in great form. rooting for him at royal liverpool!
rory’s win at the scottish open was a sign of his strength and resilience. he knows how to handle tough conditions. let’s see if he can bring that magic to royal liverpool and claim another major championship!
rory mcilroy is such an amazing player! he won the scottish open and now he’s ready for the open at royal liverpool. hope he breaks his major drought this time!
rory’s journey since his last major win has been a rollercoaster. but his consistency in the top 10 of major tournaments shows his determination. this could be his moment to shine at the open!