Rory's Final Test: Chasing the Missing Title at Jack Nicklaus' Home Event
Rory McIlroy is determined to finally secure a victory: This Thursday at the Memorial Tournament, he's chasing his very first win, serving as the final test before this month's US Open.
The Northern Irishman, who secured two consecutive Masters victories in April, has never won Jack Nicklaus' home tournament in Dublin, Ohio – a gap in his resume he's determined to fill.
His best result at Muirfield Village? That dates back a decade, to 2016, when he tied for fourth place.
After securing his career Grand Slam with his first Masters victory last year, McIlroy stated on Wednesday that the Memorial, along with Tiger Woods' annual tournament at Riviera Country Club, now ranks high on his priority list.
“I’d say here and Tiger’s event at Riviera are the two that I really want to win,” McIlroy told reporters.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to win at Bay Hill, but not when Arnold (Palmer) was still alive. So, I always thought it would be really cool to win here and make that little walk up the hill from the 18th green to shake Jack’s hand.”
“Jack and I share a special history. We’ve known each other for almost 20 years now – or I’ve known him for almost 20 years. He’s always been great to me and my family.”
“So, yeah, that’s definitely a win I’d love to secure.”
McIlroy admits that the challenging 7,569-yard, par-72 layout doesn't necessarily suit his game.
“Despite being such a long golf course, I feel it often takes the driver out of my hands – which is one of my biggest weapons, one I pride myself on,” McIlroy said.
“The fairways narrow precisely where I would typically land my driver. That has frustrated me in some ways, because I feel like my biggest weapon is somewhat neutralized here.”
McIlroy is convinced: Success this week hinges on adapting his natural game somewhat.
“It’s just about being a bit more disciplined and not being so aggressive with my strategy,” McIlroy said.
The biggest threat to McIlroy’s dream of a first Memorial victory likely comes from Scottie Scheffler, the two-time defending champion, who is chasing a rare hat-trick.
World No. 1 Scheffler could become the first player since Steve Stricker to win the same event three times in a row – Stricker triumphed at the John Deere Classic three consecutive times between 2009 and 2011.
“The last two years don’t count for much when you’re standing on the first tee,” Scheffler said. “But I’ve had success here before. It would be a cool place to achieve something like winning the same tournament three times in a row, especially since it’s Jack’s home event.”
“I’m looking forward to being on the course this week.”
Also in the field is
