Tom McKibbin flattered by Rory McIlroy comparisons ahead of professional debut

McKibbin has followed in McIlroy’s footsteps by turning professional at the age of 18 and will make his debut in this week’s Tenerife Open

Northern Ireland’s Tom McKibbin will make his professional debut in the Tenerife Open (Brian Lawless/PA)

Tom McKibbin is keeping the advice he has received from Rory McIlroy close to his chest, but admits he would love to emulate some of the four-time major winner’s achievements.

McKibbin’s successful amateur career has inevitably led to comparisons with fellow Northern Irishman McIlroy, especially as the pair both hail from Holywood Golf Club just outside Belfast.