European Ryder Cup captain, Jose Maria Olazabal has described double Major winning Rory McIlroy’s focus and passion as very special.

In an interview Olazabal conducted with highly respected Reuters correspondent and fellow AGW member, Tony Jimenez, Olazabal says McIlroy’s victory last week along the Atlantic Ocean shoreline reflected the mental strength of the 23-year old Northern Irishman.

Rory McIlroy's focus and passion special says Jose Maria Olazabal. (Photo - Eoin Clarke/www.golffile.ie)

“Rory’s performance at Kiawah Island was outstanding,” said Olazabal.

“His focus and passion is very special. It is great to see a young man of his age with two majors under his belt and such a strong mind.

“If he continues his work ethic and his love for the game he will achieve more major victories.”

Olazabal spent three days earlier this week inspecting Medinah and host venue for next month’s Ryder Cup.

He had company on Monday in the form of Chicago resident, Luke Donald who joined the Spaniard for a practice round.

No doubt one subject was discussed was the pairings with Donald surely expressing his desire to again be paired with Sergio Garcia given the duo have played together in Ryder Cup competition four times and have never been beaten – twice during the 2004 Ryder Cup at Oakland Hills and then winning both their matches in Europe’s second straight nine point demolition of the USA side two years later at the K. Club.

However with still a good five weeks to the start of competition in the Windy City and Olazabal is not talking pairings.

“It is too early to say anything about pairings yet,” said the 46-year-old Spaniard again to Tony Jimenez.

“When we are all in the team room we will do our pairings and have our conversations.

“One thing’s for sure though and that is Rory’s passion and emotions will be part of the team spirit for sure.”