McIlroy to maintain focus ahead of Augusta despite legal action

Rory McIlroy has his mind firmly on the US Masters, as he focuses on a Grand Slam bid. He might be currently embroiled in a legal fight with his former management company, but he is the 11/2 favourite with Coral to win one of the most iconic championships in golf.

The golfer is determined that the argument ongoing with Horizon Sports, over commission paid or unpaid on a £100m sponsorship deal with Nike will not affect his game.

“Of course I’m annoyed it’s still going on,” said McIlroy.

“We tried our best a few weeks ago to come to some sort of resolution and it didn’t work. At the end of the day, it will be over and done with a good bit before I have to go down Magnolia Lane in April – as long as I’ve got a clear head going there, I’m happy with that.”

However, the issue could be in the run-up to the major, as, if he is due in court at the same time he is due to play the Honda Classic or the WGC Cadillac Championship, his plans would be disturbed.

“Yeah, that’s something that’s just a part of it,” continued the Northern Irishman. “It’s not like I’m worried in any way, because I don’t feel like I’ve done anything wrong. But it’s not ideal.”

McIlroy has shown in recent months that he can cope with pressure. Not long after his split with fiance Caroline Wozniacki, he won the BMW Championships in Wentworth.

“I’ve got used to it,” he said. “I’m better at compartmentalising between stuff that’s happening off the course and then being able to focus on what’s going on on the course.”

However, Augusta provides a tough challenge, and the 25-year-old will have to be at the top of his game if he is to conquer what is likely to be a strong field.