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McIlroy's Rusty Performance Fuels Masters Recovery Plans

3/15/2026

26 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Rory McIlroy struggled in the first two rounds of The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass and finished tied for 57th.
He withdrew from Bay Hill due to back spasms, but made the cut at The Players Championship by one stroke.
He said he felt unbelievably rusty.
With The Masters approaching, McIlroy plans to rest and recover fully.
Xander Schauffele, who played alongside him, noted McIlroy's determination despite his challenges.

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Story summary

Rory McIlroy struggled in the first two rounds of The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass and finished tied for 57th.
He withdrew from Bay Hill due to back spasms, but made the cut at The Players Championship by one stroke.
He said he felt unbelievably rusty.
With The Masters approaching, McIlroy plans to rest and recover fully.
Xander Schauffele, who played alongside him, noted McIlroy's determination despite his challenges.