Rory McIlroy: 'I'm in a better place with everything going into this week'

The 36-year-old argued that throughout his career he has always been slow to refocus after big victories.

Rory McIlroy is seen during a practice round ahead of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Oakmont Country Club. Pic: AP Photo/Seth Wenig.

Rory McIlroy is hoping little amnesia and some urgent retooling off the tee can aid his attempts to tame the “nearly impossible” challenge of Oakmont this week.

The 2011 US Open champion was up early on Tuesday morning to play nine holes of practice alongside close friend Shane Lowry at the Pittsburgh course. It went a whole lot better than a scouting trip the previous week.