It was at the PGA Championship in Kiawah Island last year that
Rory McIlroy took charge and really began his ascent to world recognition and admiration. Twelve months on the 24-year-old is in the midst of a season peppered with struggles both on and off the course plus an overload of criticism.
Enter fellow golfer
Ian Poulter who spoke very candidly on Wednesday to the press regarding the Northern Irishman’s position.
“Give him a break,” said the Englishman. “I think sometimes we forget how young he is and what he's been able to achieve at a very early age. So the second he feels comfortable again, whether that's with his swing or equipment or whatever it is, then Rory will be winning golf tournaments. That natural swing of his doesn't just disappear overnight.”
The young McIlroy was sure to have appreciated the support. He will now be looking firmly ahead to his tee-off at Oak Hill on Thursday. In the bid to defend his title, McIlroy will be hoping for solid first and second rounds to ensure he makes the cut.
But whatever happens this weekend the Nike player is staying positive about his recent woes. Telling a packed press conference on Wednesday, “Whenever I do come out of this slump, I'd look back on this period as character building.”
