Major blow for Rory McIlroy

Feature by Anand Datla

July 07, 2015: An untimely injury seems to have left Rory McIlroy a doubtful starter at The Open starting on 16 July. The Northern Irishman tore an ankle ligament in a bizarre soccer accident, while indulging in a bit of it with his friends. Professional athletes lead an unforgiving life and McIlroy seems set to cop a hard lesson on the price of an harmless indulgence such as a little footie with some mates, if he does miss the third major of the season.

With experts suggesting that it could take nearly twelve weeks to heal and recover, McIlroy could in fact be missing a lot more than just the next major. The news comes as a big dampener to fans, eagerly waiting for a royal battle between McIlroy and an unstoppable Jordan Spieth.

Importantly, the torn ligament is on the left ankle – the side that bears the brunt of his golfing forces, making it increasingly unlikely that McIlroy may play. The news broke late in the evening on Monday with McIlroy posting a picture of himself in a moon shoe on his left leg.

“Total rupture of left ATFL (ankle ligament) and associated joint capsule damage in a soccer kickabout with friends on Saturday,” read a statement under the picture. “Continuing to assess extent of injury and treatment plan day by day. Rehab already started….. Working hard to get back as soon as I can.”

McIlroy relies heavily on power and a lot of that is generated through his swing, as the weight shifts on to his left leg. With less than ten days to go before the start of the biggest major of the season, it remains to be seen how McIlroy could compete at the event, even if he decided to play by subduing pain.

Fellow professionals expressed their support and shared in the agony of the unlucky timing of McIlroy’s injury. “So sad to hear about @McIlroyRory injury on his ankle,” said Sergio Garcia. “We will all miss you @TheOpen next week my friend. Fast and healthy recovery