McIlroy hopes win will finally silence critics

Rory McIlroy captured the Australian Open and a first victory of 2013 yesterday, a win he hopes “should silence” his many critics.

McIlroy has endured a nightmare year on and off the course but in the Sydney sunshine, the 24-year-old claimed a spectacular victory when he birdied the 18th hole to snatch the title away from US Masters champion and home favourite Adam Scott with the final stroke of the tournament.

“I feel embarrassed I’ve come here to Australia and ruined Adam’s goal,” smiled McIlroy, who had endeared himself to the home fans.