ROYAL PORTRUSH — Former Open champion Darren Clarke has backed Rory McIlroy to deliver a "really, really strong" performance at the 153rd Open Championship next week, insisting the Northern Irishman is getting "even better with age."
Clarke, who lifted the Claret Jug in 2011, believes McIlroy’s maturity and recent form make him a formidable contender at Royal Portrush, where the four-time major winner will compete under immense home expectations. "Rory’s game is evolving," Clarke said. "He’s not just relying on power anymore—he’s smarter, more patient, and his short game has improved dramatically."
McIlroy’s Evolution: A More Complete Player
Since his last major victory at the 2014 PGA Championship, McIlroy has faced criticism for falling short in golf’s biggest events. However, Clarke argues that the 35-year-old has refined his game in ways that aren’t always visible on leaderboards. "People focus on the majors he hasn’t won, but they don’t see how much he’s improved his wedge play, his course management, and his mental resilience," Clarke noted.
Key areas where McIlroy has strengthened his game include:
- Short Game: McIlroy ranks 12th in strokes gained: around the green this season, up from 92nd in 2022.
- Putting: After switching to a mallet-style putter, he’s gained nearly half a stroke per round on the greens.
- Course Strategy: Clarke highlighted McIlroy’s ability to "pick his moments" rather than overpowering courses as he did earlier in his career.
The Home Advantage at Royal Portrush
Royal Portrush holds special significance for McIlroy, who set the course record (61) as a 16-year-old amateur in 2005. While he missed the cut at the 2019 Open here, Clarke believes the local knowledge and fan support will be pivotal. "The crowd will carry him. Rory feeds off that energy, and this time, he’s ready for it," Clarke said.
McIlroy’s recent performances suggest he’s peaking at the right time:
- Won the Wells Fargo Championship in May, his fourth victory at Quail Hollow.
- Finished T5 at the Memorial and T3 at the Canadian Open, showcasing consistency.
- Leads the PGA Tour in strokes gained: total (2.251) this season.
Handling the Pressure
Clarke acknowledged the weight of expectation on McIlroy but dismissed concerns about nerves. "He’s been through it all—winning majors, losing them, dealing with crowds. This isn’t 2019. He’s in a different place mentally."
The Competition: Scheffler, Rahm, and Koepka
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and reigning Masters champion Jon Rahm are among McIlroy’s biggest threats, but Clarke believes McIlroy’s experience on links courses gives him an edge. "Rory’s won an Open (2014 at Hoylake). He knows how to play in the wind, how to shape shots. That matters here."
Brooks Koepka, a five-time major winner, is another contender, but Clarke pointed out McIlroy’s superior recent form in regular PGA Tour events. "Brooks turns it on for majors, but Rory’s been playing at a high level week in, week out."
Clarke’s Bold Prediction
Clarke didn’t shy away from making a prediction: "I think Rory wins. He’s due, he’s prepared, and he’s got the game to handle Portrush. It’s going to be a special week."
McIlroy, who hasn’t won a major in nearly a decade, has repeatedly stated his desire to add to his tally. A victory at Royal Portrush would not only end the drought but also cement his legacy as one of golf’s all-time greats.
As Clarke put it: "Rory’s not just playing for another major—he’s playing for history. And I believe he’s ready to make it."
