Rory McIlroy Tipped to Reach Double Figures in Major Championships
Rory McIlroy has been backed to achieve double-digit major victories by former Ryder Cup champion David Howell, following his historic defence of the Masters at Augusta National. The Northern Irish golfer recently became only the fourth player in history to successfully defend the Masters title, a year after completing the career grand slam at the same prestigious venue.
Howell's Bold Prediction for McIlroy's Future
In an interview with the Press Association at the launch of the DS Automobiles N°8 Challenge in partnership with Toptracer, Howell expressed strong confidence in McIlroy's potential. "He can get to double figures – and right now if someone said over or under for nine when he’s done I’d go over," Howell stated. He anticipates McIlroy could add four more major titles over the next decade, out of a possible 40 tournaments, positioning him to surpass legends like Gary Player, who has nine majors.
Howell highlighted McIlroy's physical and technical advantages, noting, "He’s fitter and stronger than ever. He’s hitting the ball further than he used to and he used to be the longest anyway." While acknowledging that other players might excel in specific areas like iron play or driving accuracy, Howell emphasised McIlroy's all-around prowess, stating he hits the ball as far as anyone and is proficient in every aspect of the game.
McIlroy's Place in Golf History
With six major victories to his name, McIlroy currently shares this tally with golfing greats Nick Faldo, Phil Mickelson, and Lee Trevino. Howell believes McIlroy has the potential to climb higher on the all-time list, potentially targeting Walter Hagen's 11 majors, which would place him behind only Jack Nicklaus (18) and Tiger Woods (15). "Double figures is a serious feat and I think he’ll really go at it," Howell added, suggesting that McIlroy, who is aware of golf's rich history, would find this goal particularly motivating.
Howell also weighed in on McIlroy's status among European golfers, declaring him the greatest ever from the continent. "He’s got the grand slam so he trumps Sir Nick. Everybody loves Seve (Ballesteros, who has five majors) and is Rory a bigger star than Seve? Probably not," he commented. However, he concluded that McIlroy's extra major win solidifies his position, stating, "ultimately he is our greatest ever golfer."
The discussion comes as McIlroy continues to demonstrate his dominance in the sport, with his recent achievements underscoring his commitment to remaining at the pinnacle of golf. As he looks ahead, the prospect of reaching double-digit major wins adds an exciting dimension to his already illustrious career.
