Spectators can help Rory end drought
TWO-TIME US Open champion Curtis Strange believes the return of spectators can inspire Rory Mcilroy to play at “full throttle” as he bids to end his winless drought in majors.
Up to 10,000 fans a day will be on site as Mcilroy attempts to win a third US PGA Championship title at Kiawah Island, the same South Carolina venue where he stormed to an eightshot victory in 2012.
Mcilroy lifted the Wanamaker Trophy for a second time at Valhalla in 2014 and although that remains his most recent major triumph, the 32-year-old has rediscovered his form at the right time following a worrying slump.
Missed cuts in the defence of his Players Championship title and at the Masters meant Mcilroy arrived at the Wells Fargo Championship ranked 15th in the world, his lowest position since November 2009.
A neck injury suffered on the practice range would also have forced Mcilroy to withdraw from the event if not for a late tee time on Thursday which allowed him to receive more treatment, but three days later the former world number one was celebrating a third victory at Quail Hollow.
“When he played so poorly at the Masters I was concerned because I care so much, and I think everybody cares so much about him,” Strange, who is now an analyst for ESPN, said.
“He’s such a good guy, honest to a fault. We were all rooting for him.
“I think it’s good for golf, it’s good for all of us, and it’s good for him, more importantly.
“He was going to miss a few cuts but when he’s good, he’s going to be exceptional. Covid really hurt him. He plays off the energy of the fans, and then of course the fans play off his energy, as well.”