Close friend Ricky Fowler admits it’s ‘a bummer’ Rory McIlroy has withdrawn from his defence of next week’s Open Championship at St. Andrews.
Fowler had finished joint runner-up to McIlroy a year ago at Royal Liverpool and now must firm as a favourite to win a first Major.
The American learnt of McIlroy’s withdrawal immediately following today’s Scottish Open Pro Am at Gullane.
“I thought reading the extent of Rory’s injury it would be pretty tough for him to be fit enough by next Thursday so it’s a big blow he’s had to withdraw,” said Fowler.
“It’s a bummer but it’s best Rory get himself back to 100% health and in the bigger picture that is the most important thing.
Rickie Fowler disappointed good friend Rory McIlroy is out of the 144th Open
“You can’t live life too cautiously but it will be tough for Rory having to watch it now on TV.”
Another close friend in Graeme McDowell also was not surprised.
“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.
Scotland’s Russell Knox and the current World No. 77 was officially ‘first reserve’ into golf’s oldest major and was also competing in the Scottish Open Pro-Am when he learnt of his inclusion into his first Open Championship.
“My wife sent me a text out on the golf course saying that Rory had withdrawn but I was waiting for official confirmation from the R & A but then my manager received an email from the R & A to say 100% I am into The Open,” said Knox.
“I was down on the 12th hole and had a big smile on my face when I got the text and bizarrely it was close to where I got a hole-in-one some years back.
“Naturally, I am disappointed for Rory as everyone is barracking for Rory as he’s in the prime of his career and he would have had a great chance to win at St. Andrews.
“Nobody wants to gain because another player is injured, so it is a horrible way to sneak in but I am very happy I am into my first Open Championship and can’t wait to give it a blast.”
END
