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Rory McIlroy remains positive despite missed cut at US Open

By Ali Stafford in Wisconsin

Friday 16 June 2017 23:07, UK

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Watch Rory McIlroy give his reaction to Sky Sports after he missed the cut at the US Open for the second year running

Rory McIlroy is hoping a busy stretch of golf will bring a return to form after making an early exit from the US Open.

The world No 2 missed the cut in the second major of the year for the second year running, posting an erratic opening-round 78 before shooting a one-under 71 on Friday at Erin Hills.

McIlroy was making his first appearance since last month's Players Championship, with a rib injury limiting him to six competitive starts in 2017.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland plays his shot from the 13th tee during the second round of the 2017 U.S. Open at Erin Hills
Image: The world No 2 missed the cut for the second year running

The four-time major champion was joint-bottom of the field for finding fairways on Thursday and was three over after 12 holes of his second round, but was keen to take the positives from a fast finish to his day.

"I showed up for the last six holes at least," joked McIlroy, who posted four birdies along his closing stretch. "I saw some positives there on the back nine coming in.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland plays his shot from the bunker on the 16th hole during the second round of the 2017 U.S. Open
Image: McIlroy posted rounds of 78 and 71 at Erin Hills

"Even though it's very disappointing to not be here on the weekend, I think these last two rounds will serve me well going into the summer.

"I missed the cut, but I'm optimistic going forward. I know I'm doing the right thing. I feel good about the putting, and I just have to put four rounds under my belt."

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McIlroy will now play three tournaments in a four-week stretch ahead of next month's Open Championship, as he looks to take some form into the second half of the year.

The Northern Irishman will appear at next week's Travelers Championship before hosting the Irish Open and playing the Scottish Open, with McIlroy not concerned with his first missed cut since last year's PGA Championship.

Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland reacts after his putt on the 15th green during the second round of the 2017 U.S. Open at Erin Hills
Image: The Northern Irishman is five over for the tournament

"I know if I go out and play the golf I'm capable of, good things should happen," McIlroy added. "I'm just focusing on doing what I can do and I want to win tournaments.

"I'm hungry, but I'm not going to force it. I'm going to play. The worst thing I can do is go and force it, because that's not my game.

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"If I do the right thing, I hit fairways, I swing it better and hole putts, it should all add up to being successful."

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