Will McIlroy Return to his Best in 2016?

For most golfers four tournament wins, three consistent top twenty finishes in Majors and a place in the top three of the rankings would represent a good year. However, for the most talented golfer in the world, this year will be viewed as slightly underwhelming.

Rory McIlroy had a fantastic 2014, winning two Majors and leading Europe to Ryder Cup glory. The Northern Irishman was the hottest property in golf and was seen as one of the world’s elite sportsmen.

While 2015 has by no means been a disaster for McIlroy, he has had to share some of his limelight with Jordan Spieth, the undisputed star of the year. Jason Day has also joined the elite, meaning McIlroy now has serious competition at the top of the rankings. While he has been in contention at all three Majors he played in, injuries and dips in form meant that he was unable to add to his haul.

McIlroy will take solace in the fact that despite having a bad year he has still won four tournaments, including the prestigious Race to Dubai. The Dubai Desert Classic and Cadillac Match Play title were also significant trophies to add to his collection. In an era where European Golf is not as strong as it has been in the past, McIlroy remains the start attraction the continent has to offer.

It was always going to be hard for McIlroy to improve on what he achieved in 2014, and while he will be unhappy to finish the year without a Major, he looks in good from and will be a serious contender to win further Majors in 2016. Europe will also be relying on their talisman to perform well if they are to have any chance of retaining the Ryder Cup, and team captain Darren Clarke will be hoping he can stay injury free.

While 2015 has not been a stellar year for McIlroy, expect him to perform better in 2016 and add to his collection of trophies.