|
 McIlroy's title defense and keenly anticipated contest against
Spieth was thrown into doubt on Monday when the Northern Irishman
revealed he had ruptured an ankle ligament while playing soccer with
friends.
While many observers believe McIlroy is certain to miss the third
major of the season, the American winner of this year's U.S. Masters
and U.S. Open is keen to see the world number one recover in time to
play at St Andrews next week.
"It kind of dampens it. You want the defending champion, much less
the best player in the world at the event," Spieth told the Golf
Channel when asked about the 26-year-old's injury.
"You want all fields to be full strength no matter who it is. Losing
the number one player in the world for a major championship would be
tough."
McIlroy has said that he would undergo further testing in the next
48 hours and not rush into a decision about his participation at the
British Open.
The 21-year-old Spieth is ranked just behind McIlroy at number two
in the world and thinks that the injury "was really unfortunate".
[to top of second column] |
"Accidents happen and I just wish for a speedy recovery. We all want
him back as soon as possible," the Texan said, adding that McIlroy's
absence would not make winning the tournament any easier.
"It's still just as challenging," he said. "It's still a major
championship and there is a lot of unbelievable talent. I obviously
wish he was there."
(Writing by Douglas Beattie; Editing by John O'Brien)
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