One of the world’s top golfers, Rory McIlroy, still had time to speak about the upcoming Rugby World Cup despite the impending start of the Masters.
McIlroy is seeking to become one of the select few to win all four majors at this week’s tournament in Augusta, but the upcoming World Cup remains in his thoughts.
Struggles at the global tournament
The Northern Irishman is a big rugby fan and is excited about his country’s chances of ending 36 years of frustration in the competition and lifting the Webb Ellis trophy.
He is, however, wary of getting too carried away after seeing previous World Cups end in disappointment, stating: “I just hope we haven’t peaked too soon.”
McIlroy added: “That’s my response. I’m pretty confident. I think they’re in as good a place as they ever have going into a World Cup.
“New Zealand-France, that first game is going to be massive just to set the tone to see what happens the rest of the tournament.
“I think all Irish fans are as confident as we’ve ever been going into a World Cup. Fingers crossed.”
Jibe from Grant Fox’s son
The former world number one golfer and four-time major winner would also “love it” if Ireland take on New Zealand in the World Cup final.
That comment came after fellow golfer Ryan Fox, the son of All Blacks legend Grant, jokingly took a few jabs at the Irishmen’s record at the global tournament.
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McIlroy took it in good spirits and hopes that Fox, on his Masters debut, impresses over the next few days.
“Couldn’t meet a nicer guy. So good. I felt like we talked every single hole when we’ve played,” he said.
“He likes to chat, and it’s good because it keeps it loose out there. I’m really happy for him last year.
“He played some great golf. It’s great to see him play his first Masters this year. Hopefully he plays well.”
Shane Lowry very confident
Ireland golfer Shane Lowry, in contrast to McIlroy, is extremely confident over the chances of Andy Farrell’s men in France.
Having seen them beat the All Blacks in New Zealand, claim a victory over South Africa in the Autumn Nations Series and win the Six Nations, Lowry insists that there is no doubt as to who will lift the Webb Ellis Cup.
“There’s no question, we are going to win the World Cup,” the one-time major winner said.