Rory McIlroy makes brutally honest 'deteriorating' admission after challenging year

Rory McIlroy has opened up about noticing a decline in his technique and swing during this season , as he prepares for the upcoming Irish Open. The four-time major champion is back on home turf, aiming to clinch the Irish Open title for the second time since his 2016 victory.

After a two-week hiatus following the end of his PGA Tour season at the Tour Championship, McIlroy is ready to tackle the tournament.

Despite an underwhelming finish in the United States , McIlroy still tops the Race to Dubai standings on the DP World Tour. His 2024 campaign continues with a busy schedule that includes stops across Europe and the Middle East, kicking off at Royal County Down.

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McIlroy candidly discussed some challenges he's been facing with his game ahead of the Irish Open. "I think there's a few things I need to clean up in my game," he shared with UTV, as reported by the Irish Golfer.

"It's been such a busy year, I haven't been able to work on my swing or my technique a little bit. And I feel like that's deteriorated as I've gone throughout the year."

The Irish Open presents a prime opportunity for McIlroy to improve his recent performance. He expressed his joy at being back in Ireland, competing before a local crowd and enjoying the comforts of home.

"To be home, home and stay in my own house and see my friends and all that - I've only been here for a day - but it's been great," he added.

"Obviously, really looking forward to the week. I love coming back and playing, even if it's just with my mates, coming playing at RCD [Royal County Down] or playing Portrush, so to be able to play a tournament, I didn't do so well last time. So I'm trying to improve on that."

Despite his close ties with the Irish Open, McIlroy's record in the event is rather modest - apart from his victory in 2016. On Irish turf overall, the 2014 Claret Jug winner has struggled to find his top form, missing the cut at the 2019 Open Championship at Royal Portrush.

However, his memories of competing in front of a home crowd are cherished. "I'll never forget those couple of days in Portrush, especially that Friday and trying to make the cut and the support that I got."

He was then scheduled to return to host the Irish Open at Galgorm Castle in 2020, but was unable to do so due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Yeah, Covid happened, and I wasn't able to get home [for the 2020 Irish Open]. It'll be nice to rekindle that again," he said. "I always appreciate the unbelievable support that I get from home and everyone around here. But I haven't played as well as I want to when I come back and play these events at home. So hopefully, this year that can change."