Irish Open: Top 10 power rankings at Portstewart Golf Club

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CROMWELL, CT – JUNE 25: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland reacts after putting on the 18th green during the final round of the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands on June 25, 2017 in Cromwell, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Rory dispelled the notion that it’s too difficult to win your own host event by claiming the 2016 Irish Open. Now, he’s back in his home of Northern Ireland with the chance to defend the tournament title for the first time since Colin Montgomery won in 1996 and ’97.

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This is a crucial time for the world No. 4 as he seeks to round back into shape from his rib injury that plagued him in the spring. He’s competing in his third event in four weeks following a missed cut at the U.S. Open and a T17 at the Travelers.

It’s well known that parkland style courses are more Rory’s cup of tea as his win at the K Club last year fit that bill. Still, his win in the 2014 Open Championship at Royal Liverpool showed he can get in the mix anywhere in the world if he’s on his game.

Putting four rounds together has been McIlroy’s biggest fault this season. His 69.475 scoring average on the PGA TOUR is solid and his strokes gained statistics are all positive, with exception to a minuscule -.1 around the green.

I see this as a week Rory puts it all together in front of his adoring fans with the Open Championship squarely in his sights.

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