Monty: Ryder hopes boosted by ‘fantastic’ McIlroy victory

FEW were happier with Rory McIlroy’s breakthrough win on the US Tour than European Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie.

The win has seen McIlroy virtually cement his place in Montgomerie’s Celtic Manor team as well as dispelling all concern for the mental toughness of the young Ulster man.

And despite the inclement weather that has ruined practice ahead of today’s BMW Italian Open in Turin, players were full of praise for the efforts of the former Irish Examiner National Junior Sports Star.

Montgomerie said: “There is a real buzz out here in Italy but it wasn’t just Rory winning, it was the way he won that’s caught everybody’s attention. To start the final round four shots behind and to win by four was fantastic.

“It also was good he won so quickly after going through a bit of a downer following Augusta.

“His form during the Masters wasn’t great so to see him winning three weeks after was just super.

“So on top of Alvaro Quiros’ win in Spain also last week, I’m a very happy European Ryder Cup captain.”

Darren Clarke was also in awe of McIlroy’s effort having watched TV coverage of the Quail Hollow final round after finishing in 30th place at the Spanish Open. McIlroy was a member of Clarke’s Junior Foundation team since he was 13.

“The way he won was just awesome,” said Clarke. “Rory’s improving the way we always knew he was going to.

“The way he played the back nine, he made that look easy – I have played that back nine at Quail Hollow and it is not easy. To decimate that field the way he did was exceptional, Rory just blew them away. I heard he was starting to get a little bit down on himself (after Augusta) but he is only just 21. By winning he has shown that he has got enough talent to win any tournament in the world.”

However while McIlroy’s effort was captivating, it is 17-year old Italian sensation Matteo Manassero who will the new focus this week in Turin.

The British Amateur champion is making the BMW Italian Open his debut in the professional ranks and will play the opening two days, weather permitting, alongside Rhys Davies and Montgomerie.

“When I was 17 I was still at school doing my A levels,” said Monty. “It’s amazing to think Matteo has turned pro at 17 because I was nowhere near turning professional at that age.

“I’ve always said that an education gave me the insurance policy to play golf, and to play golf well. But there are exceptions to rules and Seve was one of them and I believe Matteo could well be the same. He does seem an exceptional player. I didn’t think I would ever be playing in a tournament alongside a 17-year old professional and that does make me feel old.”

Clarke heads a field of five Irish including Gary Murphy. However torrential rain in northern Italy has thrown the event into confusion with the course closed both on Tuesday and yesterday due to the weather.