Rory McIlroy’s Struggles at The Players Raise PGA Tour Concerns Before Masters

Performance at TPC Sawgrass

McIlroy finished the tournament at level par. He opened his final round with a double-bogey. He also carded a second double at the par-three 13th, which dropped him down the leaderboard.

Driving remained a strength for him during the week. But iron play and putting were below his usual standards.

Statistical concerns

Among players who made the cut, McIlroy ranked second-last in putting. That figure underlines the week’s difficulties. It also explains why his scoring suffered despite solid tee shots.

Injury and preparation

McGinley highlighted a back problem in the days before the event. The issue limited preparation and appeared to affect McIlroy’s competitive focus.

Getting four rounds under his belt was important, McGinley added. Completing the weekend preserved his schedule heading into the major season.

Mental and schedule implications

The poor weekend may increase doubts about needing extra competitive rounds. If he had finished strongly, he might have stuck to his original plan.

Now an additional start is under consideration. The Texas Children’s Houston Open is the preferred option.

Why Houston makes sense

• It helped his preparation for Augusta last year.
• It fits the calendar ahead of the Masters.
• It offers competitive minutes without excessive travel.

Looking towards Augusta

Defending a Masters title brings extra obligations. McIlroy will likely arrive earlier than usual and face more media and sponsor duties.

He will also host the traditional champion’s dinner on Tuesday. McGinley called that moment a career milestone to perform in front of his peers.

Practice priorities

McIlroy can now focus on finishing his recovery. A short break, targeted practice, and putting work are the immediate needs.

His putting form raised questions. He missed good opportunities at both Bay Hill and TPC Sawgrass despite practicing on similar greens in Palm Beach.

Recent form and context

Earlier in the season, McIlroy produced encouraging underlying numbers. He showed strong play in the Middle East and in California.

But the Spotted struggles at The Players dented some confidence. Cameron Young won the event, shooting four-under 68 on the final day.

What’s next on the PGA Tour

The Tour stays in Florida for the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club in Palm Harbor. Early coverage begins on Thursday at 11.30am on Sky Sports Golf, with full coverage from 6pm.

With less than four weeks until the first major, McIlroy will defend his Masters crown from April 9-12. Filmogaz.com will monitor his build-up and any changes to his schedule.