Rory McIlroy won the Players Championship a few minutes ago, although he could have done it last night if he had stayed a little more focused. The Northern Irishman's performance last night was met with a flurry of reactions from fans and golfing insiders. Paul McGinley was among the first to react, stressing that Rory played brilliantly and optimistic that McIlroy will have a great season.
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The experienced Irishman said he feels Rory had more confidence in himself, which is very important after last season, where he had a few disappointing moments.
Yes, he comes in and out of form somewhat. He seems to have a little more belief this year in terms of getting over the line. For me the win last year in Dubai at the end of the year, after so many close calls for him during the year where it wasnt happening for him, there was a lot of questions being asked about him and can he get over the line, particularly with how he lost the US Open, he said, as quoted by The Golfing Gazette.
Paul McGinley shares his views
Although there were moments of crisis for Rory, that is quite normal, considering that every golfer's career is filled with such moments at some point. McGinley was delighted with the 35-year-old's performance at Pebble Beach, especially considering that Rory has not excelled there in the past.
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There was a little bit of a wobble on the last day but I think the way he closed out that tournament gave him a real impetus this year to come out stronger and we have seen it so far. Certainly the way he bossed the field at Pebble Beach, he has never played well there in the past. He has always got frustrated on those poa annua greens. He didnt let it get to him, he was fantastic and then the famous drive he hit on 14 over the house, and dominating that tournament."- he continued.
Paul McGinley believes that McIlroy was not at his best this week, but still managed to pull off the win thanks to his mental strength and confidence. Although he wasn't superior, his putting was much better than before, which helped him in key moments. McGinley feels Rory's self-belief has been renewed since the end of last year in Dubai, which now allows him to be great even when he is not playing at his best.
