New king of the golfing world Rory McIlroy has decided to pull out of next week’s French Open after his stunning US Open victory last weekend. The Northern Irishman produced a scintillating few days at the Congressional last week, finally winning his maiden major by a clear eight shots to Australia’s Jason Day.
Now the Ulsterman will follow in the footsteps of compatriot and 2010 US Open champion Graeme McDowell in withdrawing from the French Open in a bid to let what has just happened sink in. While G-Mac made his return the following week at the Scottish Open, McIlroy looks set to stay away from the course until he heads to the Open at Sandwich next month, where he will look to claim back-to-back majors. Those looking at the British Open golf odds will expect him to be in with every chance.
Last year saw McIlroy record his best finish at the Open with a tie for third place. Last weekend’s result at the Congressional will certainly give the 22-year old the supreme belief that he can perhaps go better this time around. On the evidence on last week, very few players can live with this incredibly talented youngster when he’s at his best.
McIlroy has made it clear that he will be competing at the Irish Open later in the summer though, handing the event a welcome boost following its recent troubles to find a sponsor. McIlroy’s presence will surely attract plenty of spectators to Killarney, boosting the struggling tournament’s profile.