So tough to predict weather Rory will perform..
RORY MCILROY will be the headline act this week – but what can we expect from him?
To suggest Rory’s relationship with the Irish Open has been a mixed bag is an underestatement.
His win at Straffan in 2016 is counterbalanced by four missed cuts in his last five appearances on home soil, while the less said about last year’s 118th place finish at Portstewart, the better.
On the plus side, his recent form shows promise and his duties as host at this year’s event have been curtailed. He has been too busy at recent Irish Opens and it has taken a toll.
Will the firm, bouncy links be to his advantage at Ballyliffin? Probably not, but he’ll be better suited to a fair weather challenge than horrendous conditions.
With ball control key, his creative side can shine and hopefully his shots are more instinctive.
I always think Mcilroy’s at his best when he plays with heart and emotion.
History tells us his recent Irish Open performances are either brilliant or brutal, but the odds are more in his favour this week.