Rory McIlroy struggles with elbow injury ahead of Masters
- Rory McIlroy is dealing with a right elbow issue while preparing for the Masters.
- He finished the Houston Open with a top-five result, showcasing strong form before Augusta.
- The upcoming Masters presents McIlroy with a potential opportunity to achieve a career Grand Slam.
In the lead-up to the highly anticipated Masters golf tournament, Rory McIlroy has disclosed that he is coping with an elbow injury. The Northern Irish golfer, who recently secured two wins on the PGA Tour, ended his last event, the Houston Open, with an impressive final round of 64, resulting in a top-five finish. Despite his recent successes, McIlroy expressed that the injury has affected his comfort on the course. With hopes high for a green jacket that would complete his career Grand Slam and end a long major drought, he is also focusing on preparing with his coach Michael Bannon before heading to Augusta. This marks McIlroy's 11th opportunity to win the Masters, which he has struggled with historically. Golf analyst Brandel Chamblee has provided insights on why Augusta National has been a challenging venue for McIlroy in the past, comparing it to a character from the popular movie 'The Devil Wears Prada'. Chamblee noted McIlroy's inconsistent performance at the Masters, emphasizing the crucial role of the first round results for success. He also highlighted that this year could present a unique opportunity for McIlroy, as the course may favor experienced players. Looking back at previous attempts, McIlroy has consistently finished in the top 10 at Augusta, further raising expectations for his upcoming performance, especially considering his recent form.