Until Rory McIlroy dons the green jacket, there will always be an incredible level of pressure and attention on the 27-year-old from Co. Down in the build up to the first Major of the year.
McIlroy almost has a ‘Grand Slam’ of Majors, with the elusive event at Augusta National proving the only flagship tournament which he has yet to find success.
There was, of course, the famous meltdown in 2011 where he butchered a four-shot lead entering the final round by shooting a disastrous 80.
Average showings followed in 2012 and 2013 before finishing in the Top 10 for the last three years.
So his recent form in what is often considered the most unforgiving Major of the year has been pretty solid.
It will, therefore, provide a bedrock of confidence for the Holywood man as he looks to create history over the next few days.
Preparation, of course, and becoming familiar and comfortable with your surroundings can be key in golf.
McIlroy has played a lot in Augusta over the last number of weeks which he says has helped in becoming normalised with his surroundings.
“It’s all there and I know it’s all there, it’s just a matter of going out and doing it,” McIlroy told RTÉ Sport.
“Even driving down Magnolia Lane this morning for the first time this week, it didn’t feel that special because I’ve done it some much in the last couple of weeks.
“The more you can make Augusta National feel like your home golf course, the better. Just being comfortable with your surroundings and playing it as if it were your home course.
McIlroy looks to have the added advantage with the weather which is forecast for the eastern Georgian city.
Storms and heavy rain are expected over the next couple of days and all of McIlroys previous Major wins have been characterised by adverse weather conditions.
The 27-year-old has also been keeping it relaxed over the past couple of weeks with his preparation involving playing with friends and family as he looks to keep the pressure to a minimum.
“It’s definitely been the most enjoyable build-up because it’s been fun. It’s been, going out and trying to shoot a score and trying to win a bit of money off the boys. That’s been the way I’ve prepared.”
McIlroy will get his first round underway on Thursday and he has been paired with Jon Rahm and Hideto Tanihara.
WATCH: Liverpool BOTTLED the title race 🤬 | Who will win the Premier League?
