Rory a doubt for The Open after ankle injury

Rory McIlroy has ruptured his ankle ligaments less than two weeks before he is due to defend his Open Championship crown at St Andrews.

The world number one took to social media to break the news on Monday morning but has not stated how long he will be away from the golf course.



“Total rupture of left ATFL (ankle ligament) and associated joint capsule damage in a soccer kickabout with friends on Saturday,” he wrote on Instagram.

“Continuing to assess extent of injury and treatment plan day by day. Rehab already started….. Working hard to get back as soon as I can.”



The Northern Irishman is also due to defend his US PGA Championship title at Whistling Straits next month but he could also be struggling to be fit in time for that.

The injury could pave the way for Jordan Spieth to complete a season Grand Slam after the American already holds the Masters and US Open titles.

Odds for Spieth to win all four Majors this year have now been cut to 25/1.

McIlroy’s withdrawal from this week’s Scottish Open has already been confirmed with Sweden’s Rikard Karlberg taking his place.

He posted on Facebook:

“Thanks to Rory’s soccer game I got from 1 reserve to In. Hopefully he gets well soon and I can make up for his withdrawal. Scottish open here I come!”

Despite no official confirmation, Sergio Garcia doesn’t seem too hopeful of seeing McIlroy at St Andrews.

Garcia wrote on Twitter:

“So sad to hear about @McIlroyRory injury on his ankle. We will all miss you @TheOpen next week my friend. Fast and healthy recovery.”

Fellow Spaniard Pablo Larrazabal was also quick to pass on his best wishes.

He posted: 

“Any event isnt the same with out the best in the world… We wish you a quick recovery @McIlroyRory…”

Luke Donald added: “Hope you get back out there soon @McIlroyRory, wishing you a speedy recovery.”


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