Rory McIlroy handed assurances over wife Erica Stoll and 'give it hell' prediction made

Rory McIlroy has been assured of the consistent support of his wife, Erica Stoll, and family as he prepares to contend at The Open Championship, the season's last major golf tournament. The 36-year-old will return to Northern Ireland for the legendary event held at Royal Portrush Golf Club in County Antrim next week.

McIlroy has already notched a major victory this year with a win at the Masters in April, an achievement that sealed his entry into the elite club of players that have completed the Career Grand Slam.

Despite a dip in form after his momentous win at Augusta, failing to secure another tournament victory yet, he is presently vying for the top spot at the Genesis Scotland Openthat kicked off on Thursday.

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Ryder Cupicon Sam Torrance remains optimistic about McIlroy's prospects at the home turf championship, citing the positive influence of his family being around him. In an exclusive chat with the Mirror US, on behalf of Lottoland, Torrance discussed on the role of McIlroy's close ones.

He said: "Well, they can be there any week he wants, you know. It's all about him on the golf course. That's where it all happens. He's well capable. He'll be absolutely ready.

"He'll be staying somewhere perfect, close by, and he'll get in a little cocoon and come out there on the first tee Thursday and give it hell."

The last time The Open graced Portrush was in 2019, culminating in an unexpected outcome with Shane Lowry clinching the title while favourite McIlroy experienced an uncharacteristic early cut.

Despite the setback then, four-time Ryder Cup winner Torrance expressed confidence in McIlroy's potential for a sterling opening at the major.

Recalling previous challenges, Torrance detailed: "He made a terrible start last time. But then he came back, shot 65 in the second round, and missed the cut by a shot.

"But if he had been one shot better, you never know what could have happened on the weekend. He's capable of anything, McIlroy. And I think he'll get a much better start this time."

Darren Clarke, himself a past champion of The Open, also threw his support behind McIlroy. Speaking to BBC Sport NI, Clarke reflected on the grandeur of McIlroy's recent achievements and his growth as a player.

"I don't know if most people understand how big a deal it was for him to win the Grand Slam and to be only the sixth person in history to actually do it. Hard to say it but he's an even better player now than he was back in those days [2019].

"He's been through everything, he's got more experience. Rory doesn't need any more – he's done it all – but I think I'd be looking for a really, really strong week from Rory."