Rory McIlroy says the proximity of the Irish Open to the upcoming Ryder Cup affords a "wonderful opportunity" to build form ahead of taking on Team USA later this month.
The 36-year-old, who tees off at 8am tomorrow alongside Thriston Lawrence of South Africa and Norway's Kristoffer Reitan, is looking to add to his previous success in the tournament back in 2016.
After this week’s action at the K Club, the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth will provide the final outing before Team Europe defends its Ryder Cup title at what is likely to be a raucous atmosphere at Bethpage.
Shane Lowry and Tyrrell Hatton are the other members of Luke Donald’s team that will be competing at the Kildare venue.
Asked by RTÉ Sport’s Greg Allen what the Irish Open can offer with the Ryder Cup looming, he said: "It’s a wonderful opportunity, first and foremost. We have a great team.
"There is a lot of continuity, 11 of the 12 guys (from Rome), the same captain. I think that is an under-estimated aspect of it. We know Luke’s leadership and communication style, we know what to expect. The only thing we can do is control ourselves and our reaction to whatever that bearpit will bring
"If we do that well, we have a wonderful opportunity."
Having completed his career Grand Slam in golf by winning the 2025 Masters, McIlroy struggled for both form and motivation in the immediate aftermath.
As well as the Ryder Cup, McIlroy has his sights on a seventh Race to Dubai title and a strong finish to the season.
With his place in golfing history assured, McIlroy says showcasing his talent at the K Club will be all the more special this week.
"It feels great," he said. "There is something a little different about an Irish Open. I expect it to be a good atmosphere. I’m excited to be announced on the first tee as the Masters champion.
"I have a lot of great memories of coming down here with my dad to watch the Ryder Cup in 2006 and winning the Irish Open in 2016.
"It’s lovely. My family is here. They really enjoy it here and we’re having a really nice week. It would be lovely to cap it off with a victory."
Watch the Amgen Irish Open with RTÉ Sport. Live coverage on Thursday and Friday available on RTÉ2, with Saturday and Sunday on RTÉ One. All four days live on RTÉ Player
