Golf Comment: Rory’s back on form and that’s great for golf
A WEEK ago I wasn’t sure that Rory McIlroy was ready to win his third Major but he blew away concerns with two blistering opening rounds and barely looked back.
It was a magnificent display that not only showcased McIlroy’s talent but also his character, as he kept a cool head and fended off his rivals with a steady 71 yesterday. His previous Major-winning experience will have helped enormously.
Sergio Garcia and Rickie Fowler deserve credit for keeping McIlroy under pressure with very strong final rounds, while from a European point of view Edoardo Molinari, Shane Lowry, Graeme McDowell, Victor Dubuisson and Robert Karlsson were encouraging.
That win should help McIlroy banish his dire second round habit, and it’s pleasing to hear him talk about having his hunger back.
His next target is a career grand slam and he’s certainly good enough to achieve it. For now, though, it’s just fantastic for golf that he is back on top form.
Sam Torrance OBE is a multiple Ryder Cup-winning golfer, a European vice-captain for this year’s competition, and a media commentator. Follow him on Twitter @torrancesam
FAVOURITE OPEN MOMENT
DAVID CANNON, R&A PHOTOGRAPHER
Ballesteros holing his birdie putt on the 18th at St Andrews in 1984. The roar of the crowd as the putt toppled into the hole was the loudest and longest roar I have heard in golf. A spine-tingling, electrifying moment.
MY FAVOURITE HOLE AT HOYLAKE
TONY JACKLIN
Hoylake has no weak holes, many great holes. It’s stood the test of time and been wisely adapted to stand up to the modern game. The short 13th is a great one to watch, especially when the wind’s up. We’ll see some great moments there.