Graeme McDowell says it’s a ‘massive blow’ World No. 1 Rory McIlroy has withdrawn from next week’s Open Championship at St. Andrews.

McIlroy confirmed he will not tee up next week in the defence of the famed Claret Jug as he continues to recover from a ruptured ligament in his left ankle and the legacy of a friendly football match last weekend.

Graeme McDowell says losing Rory McIlroy from The Open is a massive blow. (Photo – Colum Watts/www.golffile.ie)

McDowell was contesting a Pro-Am ahead of today’s (THR) Scottish Open start when  he learnt of McIlroy’s withdrawal from golf’s oldest Major.

“It’s hugely disappointing, especially with him and Jordan and everything that’s going on,” said McDowell.

“No one would love to stop Jordan in his tracks next week more than Rory. With the fun rivalry going on and everything, he’s going to be gutted. I saw the Old Course last Saturday and I believed that Rory was rightly a favorite. I thought he’d get it done round there

“It was looking a really exciting Open for all involved. I’m sure he’s really disappointed. I sent him a text during the week to wish him all the best.

“I was reading between the lines as to what the description of his injury was so really I wasn’t expecting him to play in the Open, so I’m not surprised he’s pulled out.

“However it’s a massive blow for the tournament, he’s the world’s No. 1 player so we’re all hoping for a speedy recovery”.

McDowell heads into this week’s Scottish Open looking to find some form ahead of teeing up at St. Andrews.

He spent Monday playing a very green Old Course and was spotted today on the practice range at Gullane spending a lot of time with long-time coach, Pete Cowen.