MAC PLANS TO CHANGE TACK
RORY MCILROY hopes the recent spectre of Shinnecock Hills helps him end his major drought when he tees it up at next week’s Open at Carnoustie.
The World No8 suspects he did too much homework on the sprawling US Open course – and paid a heavy price.
A torrid 10-over par first round 80 – including three double bogeys – delivered the worst opening day score of the 2011 champion’s major career.
Hitting Shinnecock 11 days before the event to play and prep didn’t work and lessons have been learned.
Mcilroy, who won the last of his four major titles at the 2014 US PGA at Valhalla, said: “I feel like I almost over prepared for Shinnecock.
“I was there too long and I was starting to see all the spots you shouldn’t hit.. and that’s where I was hitting it.”
In contrast he plans to “treat the Open Championship like a normal event – prepare, play and see what happens. I’m not putting any pressure on myself.”
While Mcilroy finished 12 shots off eventual Irish Open winner Russell Knox, he believes his game is “trending in the right direction”.
He said: “I hit the ball the best I’ve hit it on Thursday and felt like I sort of kept it up. I also putted a lot better on Sunday and felt more comfortable on the greens, so that was great.
“I’ve now got a week to prepare for The Open and at least I know what to work on.”
RUGBY UNION