Rory McIlroy got in a practice round at St Andrews prior to his latest duel with some of LIV Golf's biggest names at The Dunhill Links which starts tomorrow.
Among the field he'll be squaring off against tomorrow are Talor Gooch and Louis Oosthuizen. Patrick Reed was due to also compete but he withdrew after suffering a strange hotel injury during last week's Cazoo French Open.
The 32-year-old claimed the mattress on his Mersailles hotel bed was "too soft" causing pain in his back.
READ MORE: Gary Murphy column: Emotional St Andrews return for Rory McIlroy at Dunhill Links
Mcilroy will of course be among the favourites to land the £780,864 first-place prize as he continues his remarkably consistent form.
However, while he has ironed out the wild fluctations in his game, he has once again failed to land a major with his closest call coming at St Andrew just two months ago when he was reeled in by Cam Smith.
The Aussie has since become arguably the best current player to join the ranks of the Saudi-backed breakaway.
Writing in his column previewing the tournament, Gary Murphy said: "The Dunhill Links is one of the more relaxed tournaments all season.
"He will be alongside his father Gerry and it really is the stuff dreams are made of, striding the hallowed turf with your family.
"But as always in golf, you are there to perform and they have a huge pot to play for this week. Rory leads the way in the money list and, with just two more starts to come, he has an opportunity to cement that position.
"The fact he has never won this title is an added incentive.
"The weather forecast, unfortunately, is going to determine the outcome and just staying around the leaders is key.
"Links golf courses rely on mother nature to protect them nowadays and she will give that protection in abundance this week.
"Rory seems at the top of his game and it is great to see such a strong supporting cast for one of the more enjoyable weeks on Tour.
"The Ryder Cup points this side of Christmas can really frame the team.
"We have seen some big performances to date – Shane Lowry was magnificent in Wentworth while Bob MacIntyre stepped up to win at the host venue in Italy.
"Guido Migliozzi then won in fine style around Golf National to upset Rasmus Hojgaard last weekend.
"So the signs are great that the next group of European Tour players are stepping up."
READ NEXT:
Crisis narrowly avoided as late Robbie Brady penalty gives Ireland win over Armenia after implosion
Kinahan cartel mobster Liam Byrne filmed hanging out with Premier League football manager
Video appears to show Israel U21 manager slap his own player during Ireland game
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
