7 Mar 2013

McIlroy apologises for walkout

10:11 am on 7 March 2013

The world golf number one Rory McIlroy has apologised via a media conference for his mid-round walkout last week on the opening day of the Honda Classic in Florida.

Facing questions in public for the first time after five days of constant criticism and speculation, the 23-year-old Northern Irishman offered his apology in a sincere manner, explaining that his sudden withdrawal had much to do with his swing troubles, and feeling the pressure of living up to his outstanding season last year.

He feels he's released a lot of that pressure as he prepares to play alongside Tiger Woods for the opening two rounds of the World Golf Championship event, starting Friday morning in Doral, Florida.