Fighting Irish

Rory McIlroy arriving at the players parking lot before a practice round ahead of the 2018 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, N.Y. on Wednesday, June 13, 2018.  (Copyright USGA/Jason Miczek)

Rory McIlroy insists he's mentally, physically and technically ready to end his four-year major drought at the US Open.

With his injury woes behind him, the Holywood star (29) ready to roar again and show the world he’s the best player in the world.

And while he knows it will also take on of his most disciplined performances, it's an opportunity for him to prove that dominate without his driver and dissect Shinnecock Hills with rapier-like iron play.

Fit and raring to go, McIlroy said: "I think the three months I took off at the end of last year really helped, just to get myself healthy and in a right frame of mind to come out this year and embrace everything and try to add to my Major tally and try to become the best golfer in the world again. 

"I feel like I am trending in the right direction. I have had five chances to win this year and I have only been able to do it once. 

"So I feel like there's a couple that have gotten away. But it's a long season, there are three Majors left this year and I feel I am right where I want to be."

While fan favourite Phil Mickelson is trying to complete the career Grand Slam at 48 and the resurrected Tiger Woods (42) is seeking that elusive 15th major, the big favourites are relentless iron players like Justin Rose, Henrik Stenson and Jason Day.

McIlroy is Irish golf's great hope but while rain was falling during yesterday's final practice round, taking some of the sting out of the course, it remains to be seen if he's got the discipline to box clever for 72 holes.

Shane Lowry and 2010 US Open champion Graeme McDowell are better suited to a US Open dogfight and both are spoiling for a scrap.

Lowry said: "I love the fact that I will be standing there on Thursday at the tee and you know it is going to be a battle ahead of you and you have to gear yourself up for that."

As for McDowell, who is showing signs of a return to form, he said: "I think this week my game has been as complete as it’s been in a long time. 

"I feel as good as I have in a long time and I like the way this golf course sets up for me."