Prior to last week Rory McIlroy had played just twice in the company of Tiger Woods.
But that figure has now trebled following the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship with the U.S. Open winning duo playing a practice round together and then the opening two rounds and third day in each other’s company.
And at the end of the tournament won by England’s Robert Rock, just a stroke separated McIlroy and Woods with the curly-haired Northern Irishman finishing runner-up for a second year running and Woods who was tied in third place.
Prior to their meeting in the UAE capital McIlroy and Woods had been in each other’s company only twice inside the ropes and was during a skins match ahead of the 2010 Memorial and then later that year in a round at the Chevron Challenge in L.A.
Tiger Woods could be rubbing his eyes more oftent this year at the sight of Rory McIlroy. (Photo - Stuart Adams/www.golftourimages.com)
However in leaving Abu Dhabi last Sunday night McIlroy predicted he is expecting to be spending more time in Woods’ company throughout the coming season.
“It would have been nice to play with Tiger in the final round in Abu Dhabi and it might have given me that little added spur to have maybe won the event,” said McIlroy.
“I went out there on Sunday trying to shoot a good number and trying to get to a target but I just came up one stroke short.
“But after playing a practice round and three competition rounds alongside Tiger I hope I can play more in his company this year.
“It seems from what we’ve seen this week that Tiger is back to playing his best and I guess if I am playing alongside him them I’m doing alright, as well.
“When Tiger’s playing in an event he’s the name you’re looking for on the leader board.”
And after Rock became the latest player to go 18 rounds with Woods and come out in front, McIlroy had some simple advice for others who may come up against the 14-time Major winner.
”I know I feel very comfortable in Tiger’s company and I don’t think it takes very long to get comfortable around him,” said McIlroy.
“Besides Tiger seems a pretty laid back guy once you get to know that little bit better, and anyway you can’t let anyone out there intimidate you as you want to play your best golf without anyone getting inside your head.”
While Woods was jetting out and headed straight back to his Florida abode, McIlroy was taking the hour long drive north to neighbouring Dubai.
McIlroy has a two-day photo promo shoot Monday and Tuesday with sponsor, Oakley before hitting the practice range at both the Els and Emirates Club ahead of the February 9th commencing Omega Dubai Desert Classic.
