McILROY GIVES PEACE A CHANCE FOR SLAM BID

IT must be difficult telling close friends they can’t come to Augusta. But Rory McIlroy has shown another side to his easy-going nature this week and cut down dramatically on his entourage at the Masters as he prepares for his fourth attempt at the career Grand Slam. ‘I’m going to upset a few people, but if I end up winning the green jacket I won’t mind that,’ he said. ‘The problem is it’s the tournament everyone wants to go to, and it can become quite a production, with seven people in one house and 10 in another. This year, I want it to be chilled and quiet.’ The Northern Irishman knows it will be anything but once he steps on to the grounds at Augusta. As if there wasn’t enough pressure trying to become just the sixth player to complete the Slam, he’s now the tournament favourite following his stunning victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational last month. ‘That showed me my game is in the right order for Augusta,’ he said. ‘As for the other bit, I’m 28 and it’s important I remember I’ve got plenty of good years left. ‘I realise every year that passes is another chance that got away but I’m just delighted to be part of this conversation. ‘There are only three active players who can do it (Phil Mickelson needs to win the US Open and Jordan Spieth the USPGA) and I’m thrilled to be one of them. I’m first up as well, so let’s see how it goes.’ In his three attempts so far, McIlroy finished fourth in 2015, tied 10th the following year and tied seventh last year, without looking like winning. What’s the missing piece to get over the line in his 10th Masters? ‘It’s just a case of putting it all together,’ he said.