Facing muscle spasms in his lower back, golf star Rory McIlroy managed to participate in the FedEx Cup finale, with hopes set on the grand $18 million bonus at the Tour Championship and with the Ryder Cup just around the corner.
McIlroy, who completed the initial round of the Tour Championship with an even-par 70, expressed his determination and resilience. “I hung in there and I just felt like if I could get through today, it's better than it was yesterday, hopefully tomorrow's better than it was today, and just sort of try to keep progressing,” shared the golfer.
Opting out of media interviews, McIlroy took the route to an ice bath. His satisfaction was palpable, as he expressed being “over the moon” despite being three shots behind. However, he had genuine apprehensions regarding the muscle spasms he encountered prior to the game.
While in Florida, McIlroy noticed tension stretching from his right rib cage down to his hip, an outcome of intense golf sessions. Despite treatment and exercise, the spasms persisted. Describing one such episode, he said, “I was at the bottom of a body-weight squat and my whole lower back spasmed, seized up. I couldn't move. I honestly couldn't address the ball this time yesterday. So to get to where I am today is good.”
Although there were limitations to his game, McIlroy's dedication was clear. With a restricted swing, he managed to secure birdies, showing moments of promise. Assistance also came in the form of Scottie Scheffler, the No. 1 seed, who faced his own challenges, enabling McIlroy to come closer to the lead.
Known for his impressive track record, McIlroy, who holds three FedEx Cup titles, witnessed other players like Collin Morikawa, Keegan Bradley, and BMW Championship victor Viktor Hovland showcasing their prowess.
McIlroy's upcoming schedule is packed, with participation in the Irish Open and the BMW PGA Championship on the European tour. His participation in the Ryder Cup, scheduled from September 25 to October 1 at Marco Simone outside Rome, is keenly anticipated by fans and experts alike.
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