The golf world is holding its breath, folks! Of all times, right before The Players Championship – one of the most important tournaments on the Tour calendar – a real drama threatens to unfold around Rory McIlroy. Our Northern Irishman, who was set to defend his Players title, will likely need to get his back sorted out first. This thing is proving more persistent than we initially thought.
The Golf Channel, always well-informed, quotes Rory himself from a text message. Accordingly, his arrival at TPC Sawgrass is delayed until Wednesday.
“The back is more stubborn than we thought,” McIlroy stated. “That’s why I'm staying home today and tomorrow to continue treatment in South Florida. The hope is that I can travel to Ponte Vedra sometime on Wednesday.”
Remember? Last Saturday, he already withdrew from the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill – right in the middle of the third round. Just a little tweak during his gym warm-up, one initially thought.
But it got even worse: After hitting a few balls on the driving range, Rory felt severe muscle cramps in his lower back. Boom, the decision was made: Withdrawal! That's how fast it can happen, fellow golfers.
And this whole situation? It comes precisely now, as the season is really getting serious. For the five-time Major winner, this is crunch time, friends.
He had hoped to defend his Players title in Florida this week. And after that? Next month already brings the next title defense: the Masters at Augusta! The clock is ticking for Rory.
