McIlroy feels “less pressure” after ending Major drought at Masters

Rory McIlroy has nothing but “positive vibes” about returning to Quail Hollow next week to bid for back-to-back Major wins in the PGA Championship.

After completing the career Grand Slam at the Masters and celebrating an emotional homecoming with his parents, the world number two returns to individual action in the Truist Championship at Philadelphia Cricket Club this week.

But after winning four Wells Fargo Championships at Quail Hollow, he believes he’ll feel “less pressure” than ever next week.

“I'm obviously going to feel more comfortable, and a lot less pressure and I'm also going back to a venue that I love,” McIlroy said.

“It's nothing but positive vibes going in there next week with what happened a few weeks ago and then with my history there and how well I've played at Quail.

“I probably won't be quite as on edge as I have been for the last few years when I've been at major championships.”

As an only child, Mcllroy (36) admitted his return home to celebrate his Masters win with his parents was hugely emotional.

“Look, it was amazing going home,” he said. “I didn't want any fanfare. I tried to keep it as private as possible.

“I just wanted to see my parents and the people that were closest to me, and we had a really nice two days.

“With my dad, like I never get that emotional with my dad. It was great. It was great to see him. Then, when I saw my mom, we were both a mess for a few minutes.

“Look, as an only child, I have a bond. I'm lucky, and I know a lot of people feel this, that they have a close bond with their parents.

“But I think as time goes on and I'm getting a little older, I realise that they're not going to be around forever. 

“It means even more that they were still around to be able to see me complete the Slam and fulfil those dreams.”