Rory McIlroy leading the St. Jude Classic, Nicklaus did the trick!
After taking lessons from “The Golden Bear”, the former World number one Rory McIlroy is back in his game.
After missing three consecutive cuts, McIlroy was on thin ice as the World number one Luke Donald continued his brilliant form. His personal life was affecting his professional life, as his form deteriorated day by day.
Finally, the 23-year-old golfer decided to take things seriously and take notes from the best in the world of golf, Jack Nicklaus.
Nicklaus came hard on the former World number one and concluded that it is indeed the lack of preparation that has been McIlroy’s prime issue.
“I know that there were times when I wasn't prepared and I got exactly what I deserved – nothing,” said Nicklaus while elaborating McIlroy’s poor form.
McIlroy, on the other hand, acted wisely and took all the criticism given by “The Golden Bear” in a positive manner.
“I know Jack always went to the tournament's venue a week before and spent four or five days there to prepare. I think the reason that he won many more majors than anyone else was because he prepared more than anyone else,” said McIlroy.
St. Jude Classic saw McIlroy proving that he took Nicklaus’ advice and practically applied it in the tournament.
The level of play that the former World number one displayed at Memphis was indeed very impressive. He is leading the tournament and looks promising.
“I saw some positive signs out there, so I'm just happy with how I played. I held two good putts on 17 and 18, which was nice. I'm happy with how I'm playing and with how I'm controlling the golf ball,” said a confident McIlroy.
McIlroy will defend his US Open title next week in San Francisco. He seems well-prepared for his defence as his current tournament will provide him with the right amount of preparation required for the tough week ahead of him.
The upcoming US Open title defence is indeed the most crucial tournament of McIlroy’s entire career, as it will either make or break his stature as a professional golfer. For now, his form provides enough hope for a successful title defence next week.
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