Irish Open: "lovely to be back" -McIlroy raring to go at the K Club
The Holywood superstar is aiming for his second title
Rory McIlroy is the star name at the Irish Open which got under way today (Thursday) at the famous K Club in Kildare.
Holywood's World Number Two and Grand Slam Champion, said the tournament held a special place in his heart.
"It's lovely to be back," he said.
"I have got some great memories here at the K Club.
"I came to watch the Ryder Cup here in 2006 with my dad and then to win my only Irish Open here nine years ago.
"It's got a lot of great memories for me and hopefully I can add to these, this week."
The tournament is the penultimate one before the Ryder Cup begins at the end of the month.
Having won the Masters this year to complete the career Grand Slam, McIlroy says coming back to the K Club this year will be even sweeter.
"I can't wait to get out there and get announced as the Masters champion," he said
McIlroy starts his week alongside the in-form duo of Thriston Lawrence of South Africa and Kristoffer Reitan of Norway.
Meanwhile, fellow Holywood star Tom McKibbin is also in the field along with home favourites Shane Lowry and Padraig Harrington.