World number two Rory McIlroy says he ‘just needs a little something’ to end his major drought as he previewed his tilt at the 2024 PGA Championship.
Rory McIlroy, who is currently ranked second in the world, expressed the importance of having that extra edge when he finds himself in contention to break his major championship dry spell.
McIlroy, who celebrated his 35th birthday last week, has three remaining opportunities this year to break his winless streak.
It has now been a decade since McIlroy last triumphed in one of the major tournaments.
He secured his most recent significant victory by narrowly defeating Phil Mickelson by a single stroke at the PGA Championship held at Valhalla.
McIlroy’s triumph was even more impressive as he completed his round in near darkness, marking consecutive major wins following his success at the 2014 Open at Royal Liverpool.
McIlroy expressed to the Belfast Telegraph that he heavily relies on data to provide him with reassurance that he has improved as a player since his younger days as a 25-year-old with a head full of bushy hair.
He mentioned that there was greater volatility in his game during that time.
He mentioned, “I prefer not to delve too deeply into the statistics, but if you examine my performance over the past four years and contrast it with earlier in my career, you’ll see that I have improved.
The outcomes in the major tournaments may not reflect that, but I am continuing to work hard.”
I possess the skills necessary to compete effectively, allowing me to gradually work my way into contention. However, it is during crucial moments, such as when I find myself in contention on the back nine on Sunday at Valhalla, that I require that extra spark.
During my time at Valhalla, I witnessed Phil and Rickie [Fowler] exchanging fist pumps as they made their way to the 12th tee. Whatever it may be, creating a narrative in your mind can ignite the passion needed to succeed.
Playing for a major championship, one shouldn’t necessarily rely on a fire. It is, after all, the most significant event in our sport. I am aware that my skills as a player have improved since that time.
The prevailing storyline has been centered around Rory’s decade-long major championship drought, questioning the reasons behind it.
However, it is important to acknowledge that during this period, I have accomplished every other feat that the game has to offer. The only remaining task is to triumph in one of the prestigious four major tournaments.
McIlroy will be returning to Valhalla next week.
He shared with the publication that his enduring recollection from that time was witnessing Fowler and Mickelson enthusiastically celebrating with fist pumps during the last round, which ignited a strong response.
“It was as if it was a two-on-one situation,” he expressed. “And at that moment, I was determined to outperform these individuals.”
Prior to his departure for Louisville, McIlroy will take center stage at the Wells Fargo Championship.
His aim is to secure victory at Quail Hollow for the fourth consecutive time.
If he manages to win, he will increase his collection of PGA Tour titles to 26.
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