Rory forced into safety approach
RORY McILROY will be unable to play back- toback tournaments for up to a year because of the ankle injury that led him to miss the Open.
The world No1, who plays in this week’s Deutsche Bank Championship in Boston, is resigned to playing a reduced schedule to prevent long- term problems.
McIlroy was yesterday granted dispensation by the European Tour to play 12 instead of the minimum 13 events this season so he can take part in the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai in November. “This is a potentially serious injury,” said European Tour medical chief Dr Roger Hawkes.
“There is a risk of permanent instability of the ankle which could seriously affect his swing and walking safely on uneven surfaces.
“He will need close attention for about a year. The suggestion of a reduced schedule and avoiding back- toback events is sensible to allow adequate healing and reduce the chance of complications that could jeopardise his career.”