We don't know if this is profound or just plain weird, but Rory McIlroy compared himself to Abraham Lincoln today ahead of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
The Ulsterman will be hoping to defend his title at Bay Hill this weekend, as a star-studded field descends on Orlando. But one title that has eluded the 29-year-old former World Number One, is the Big Daddy itself.
Great to be back at @APinv to remember Arnie and all he did for the game! It’ll be fun trying to defend my title this week. #FedExCup ⛳️ pic.twitter.com/Mu8o9eSQhG
— Rory McIlroy (@McIlroyRory) March 6, 2019
Pulling on the green jacket of the Augusta National club would not only signify the conquering of a personal demon for the Hollywood native in winning a Masters title that slipped by so agonisingly in 2011 and again in 2015, but it would also complete the Grand Slam circle and etch his name among the immortals.
Only five players in the history of the Sport have claimed all four majors - Sarazen, Hogan, Player, Nicklaus and Woods - while Jordan Speith and Phil Mickelson sit alongside McIlroy stranded on three.
The Northern Irish iron-swinger was seemingly in generous form speaking to journalists at this morning's press conference, claiming that for Speith, Mickelson and himself to do it all in the one year "would be awesome".
How good would it be this year if Jordan won the PGA, Phil won the US Open, I won Augusta and three others are put into that group?
How good would that be for golf? That would be awesome. I would love them to do it. It’s all about exposure and golf would be right in the centre of all sports stories if that were to happen. Which is great for everyone involved in the game.
But McIlroy took his American charm offensive maybe one step too far with a bizarre juxtaposition between himself and the 16th President of the United States.
Explaining how he has grown "comfortable" with the pressure that has dogged in appearances year-on-year in Georgia, the current World Number Six had this to say.
"I've become comfortable with the fact I've tried four times, I've failed but Abraham Lincoln lost the first elections he was ever in. He wound up being the president of the United States. So I've still got a bit of time."
Yeah! OK! Rawwwry Mack Ell Roy!
Next, you'll be seeing him doth the cap and leak a tear at the Star Spangled Banner.
Catch yourself on, mate.
