Rory McIlroy has continually fallen short at Augusta and has now gone 10 years without winning a Major – but three-time winner of the Green Jacket Nick Faldo believes the Ulsterman is in the prime of his life.
Sir Nick Faldo asserts that in order for Rory McIlroy to secure victory at the Masters, he must liberate himself from any pessimism and diversions.
Last year, the Ulsterman didn’t make the cut after taking on the unofficial role of being the PGA Tour’s anti-LIV spokesperson. He even conducted an on-course interview during his round. However, three-time Masters champion Faldo believes that McIlroy is currently at the peak of his career, just a month away from turning 35.
Despite this, McIlroy is approaching the 10th anniversary of his last Major win in August 2014. In his quest for the elusive career Grand Slam, he has made some changes. He has resigned from the PGA Tour Policy Board, received a lesson from Butch Harmon, and altered his pre-Masters routine. As part of his new approach, he finished third at the Texas Valero Open and plans to arrive at Augusta National on Tuesday.
Faldo expressed his disappointment, stating that the pattern has been repeating itself over the years, not just limited to this season. He highlighted the accumulation of “scar tissue” from Rory being the favorite player for several years now.
Faldo pointed out that Rory’s short irons are a major concern, despite his exceptional driving skills. He emphasized the discomfort felt when Rory uses a wedge. Faldo suggested that if Butch can assist Rory in improving his short irons, it might be the only adjustment needed.
He is at the peak of his abilities. They are incredibly fit and well-trained now, so I believe he has at least another decade of being in top physical condition. It all comes down to motivation and determination. It’s been almost a decade since he last won a Major, and that’s the issue. Trust is a factor, as well as self-belief and confidence. Whatever you want to call it.
There have been moments when he has given his all, asking himself, “Can I start fresh? Can I truly let go of the past and rediscover my talent to play golf again?”
“It’s not as simple as it seems. Everyone often expresses their desire to play like they did when they were 18. As we age, we all attempt to achieve that, but can we truly turn back time? Can we erase all the negativity we have witnessed and experienced? The emotional aspect is perhaps even more challenging than what we observe. Is it possible for him to start anew? Maybe there is a possibility. I wouldn’t underestimate him.
There exists a path where he could rediscover his rhythm because, as we are aware, once he finds that rhythm and gains trust, he becomes extraordinary. I believe that’s all he yearns for: to be liberated. That’s his ultimate goal.”
He decided to step down from all the policy boards and such. He wants to focus on golfing once more. Being thirty-five is a fantastic age. He’s in great shape, very strong. He’s arguably one of the most technically skilled golfers in the game. It’s all about finding that confidence.
Last year at this time, the PGA-LIV Golf civil war was in full swing – and McIlroy was among the players who participated in a walk-and-talk with the American TV commentators during his first round to spice up the entertainment. Despite the favorable scoring conditions, he only managed an even-par 72 and followed it up with a disappointing five-over 77, falling short of making the cut by two strokes.
Sky Sports analyst Faldo expressed his surprise at the situation back then – and his stance remains the same. “I was taken aback,” Faldo stated. “I couldn’t believe it! The Masters?” he questioned. “Certainly, hold such events on any other week. But why during the Masters?
“One of the most special aspects of the Masters is the intimacy between you and your caddie, alongside the other players. That exclusivity is what makes the tournament so extraordinary. So, to introduce additional individuals all of a sudden?”
You absolutely require complete focus, and everyone can comprehend that. Neither the Masters nor the Majors. Allow the guys to go out, have fun, and entertain in their own way. Therefore, no, I had a different opinion. I found it peculiar and marvelous.
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