McIlroy fears opening hole as Open Championship gets under way
McIlroy seems unfazed, however. He dismissed the notion that he has nothing to lose after completing the career grand slam at The Masters in April, so ending his 11-year major drought, but he does feel his experience allows him to better prepare and relax. 'In theory, yes, but in practicality, probably not,' McIlroy replied when asked if his Augusta glory can free him up.
'I'm still the same fierce competitor, and I still want to win these events. Look, I've done everything I wanted to in the game, but at the same time I still want to do a lot more. This is my first time back in front of my home support since having achieved what I did in April and is going to be an amazing experience and I don't want to let them down.
'But I am more of a well-rounded golfer than six years ago and am just so grateful to be in this position now, to be home and to have a second chance so soon, if you like and have the chance to win another major championship, another Claret Jug. I am really excited for the week.'
At the Masters, McIlroy was involved in a gripping tussle with Justin Rose that went all the way to a play-off. The veteran was complimented for his grace in defeat after McIlroy birdied the first extra hole and the champion's heart evidently went out to Rose, too. Should he fail to prevail, he would like Rose to lift England's first Claret Jug in 33 years.
'Honestly, if it's not me then with what Rosey and I went through at Augusta, how close he has been, I would love to see him get a second major,' McIlroy said. 'He has won a US Open and an Olympic gold. But I just think that second major would validate what a great career he has had. That would be a great storyline. But I want one of the Euros to win. Let's keep the Jug this side of the Atlantic.'
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