Open Golf: Rory misses first Open cut

RORY McIlroy missed his first cut in the Open after an improved but still disappointing 75.

The two-time Major champion’s poor run of form continued with five shots disappearing in the first eight holes. He rallied with two birdies in the last four holes but could still only post a 12-over aggregate.

The late mini charge was down to a change of focus, using driver wherever possible to prepare for the coming weeks.

“I decided that I was going to hit driver every hole that I could, because that’s going to be a big factor the next few weeks, and I actually drove the ball pretty well, and ended up playing the last 11 holes under par. That was encouraging, but obviously I’m disappointed to be going home for the weekend.”

The youngster tried a different approach this week, playing plenty of practice rounds and hitting plenty of balls but, come the 1st tee on Thursday, things were a little different.

‘I decided that I was going to hit driver every hole that I could, because that’s going to be a big factor the next few weeks’ – Rory McIlroy “I took myself away and just hit balls and tried to figure out what was maybe not quite right technically. And I think I just need to sort of forget about that and just go and play golf. And go and try to score and shoot scores and be on the golf course. I think that’s something that is very important for these next few weeks.

“I don’t know if I can single out one thing. I think it’s been a combination of things, to be honest. I think schedule hasn’t been quite right. Swing hasn’t been quite right. And a combination of those has led to, I guess, sloppy play, just because of not sharp enough. Because whenever you’re swinging it well and you’re confident, you can take a couple of weeks off, go to the next event and play and you’re OK.

“I think when I am struggling with my game. I think it’s better to play my way out of, and that’s something I haven’t really done this year.”

McIlroy will next play at the Bridgestone, where no cut takes place, and then the defence of his PGA title.