The BBC catches up with Rory McIlroy, who believes Tiger Woods will make a successful return to the game following the intense speculation over his private life.

"I wouldn't be surprised if he comes out next year and proves people wrong by winning a couple of majors. I don't think he will quit - he's the best and he wants to win."

McIlroy added: "Tiger is one of the most competitive guys I've ever come across whether it's golf, chess or table-tennis. He is probably going to be the best golfer of all-time and he is the best athlete in the world right now."

Does this sound as though McIlroy has actually played table tennis and chess with the world No 1.

As for his own year, McIlroy revealed that his confidence is high heading into the 2010 campaign.

"If someone told me at the start of the year I'd win my first event, climb into the top 10 in the world and do so well in the majors I would have taken it. But there is still room for progression and hopefully I'll have an even better 2010.

"I did well in the majors this year and took a lot of confidence from some of my finishes. A couple of the major championship venues suit me next year so you never know. If I keep improving and keep practising then hopefully one day I'll get to number one."