Rory McIlroy :: ‘Easier to win now’

• Rory McIlroy says it’s easier for him to win on tour now
• World No.1 looking for consecutive wins at the Players
• Plays down group with Jordan Spieth and Jason Day

Rory McIlroy has said it’s easier for him to win on tour than it was six years ago but says he’ll have to be at his best to make it back-to-back PGA Tour wins at the Players Championship.

In recent weeks, leading players have claimed that the depth of fields for PGA Tour events has made it harder to win over the past few years, with Sergio Garcia commenting that such an issue is ‘great for the game’.

But focusing on himself, the 26-year-old – who secured his tenth PGA Tour title at the WGC-Cadillac Match Play at TPC Harding Park last week – spoke about how his improvement as a player has made it simpler to win tournaments, although he acknowledged how tough it would be to win the Players Championship this week.

“I believe it’s easier for me to win now than it was six years ago” – Rory McIlroy

Speaking ahead of his first round at TPC Sawgrass, the four-time major champion said: “I believe it’s easier for me to win now than it was six years ago because I’m a better player. This tournament’s as tough as any because you’re trying to beat the best players in the world.

“There’s certain tournaments you go to and you can count on two hands who really has a chance to win that week, whether it be the conditions or the setup of the golf course, but here you could pick basically the entire field and feel like they have a decent chance to win.”

Anticipation has been building ahead of Rory McIlroy’s opening round, as he has been grouped with Masters champion and world No.2 Jordan Spieth, along with Jason Day.

But the world No.1 played down being grouped with Spieth – who has been touted as McIlroy’s main rival in the years ahead – and said he won’t treat his round any differently.

“When I saw the draw come out, I was excited to play, not just with Jordan but obviously with Jason Day as well. It’s always nice when you’re part of a group that’s got a little bit of buzz around it and a good atmosphere.

“I’m out there and focusing on my own game”

“I’m pretty much paying attention to myself out there when I’m just sort of trying to get myself around the golf course and, regardless of who I play with, that doesn’t really change. I’m out there and focusing on my own game and trying to do the best that I can.”

Rory McIlroy tees off with Spieth and Day at 8.39am local time (1.39pm UK time).

Rory McIlroy at the Players :: Your thoughts

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