Rory McIlroy denied 'greatest' tag as Open challenge laid down to Masters champion

Seve Ballesteros still ranks above Rory McIlroy as Europe’s greatest golfer, according to Sir Nick Faldo. But the six-time Major winner believes the Ulsterman can change that by winning his home Open with the help of the crowd - and then adding more big titles in “another Major winning career”.

McIlroy, 36, became the first European to ever complete the career Grand Slam with his emotional Masters win. He has now won five Majors - the same as Ryder Cup legend Ballesteros - and one behind Faldo.

The Sky Sports Golf analyst said: “It is always debated on the numbers but I would put him past me. Whether he has won the battle against Seve? Seve won a lot of tournaments - about 50 in Europe and five Majors.

"So I think Seve paved the way for so many different things so I would put him a smidgen behind Seve right now.”

But Faldo added: “I think what Rory has done is incredible and he will probably do even more. He has the opportunity. His uniqueness is to go 11 years between Majors. And if he carries on doing more, he will be the only one ever to do that. That will be a phenomenal achievement, wouldn’t it?

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"Having another Major winning career would be absolutely incredible. He has the opportunity which would put him into a different category.”

The 153rd Open is the biggest sporting event in Northern Ireland’s history. McIlroy missed the cut here in 2019 after taking an eight on the first hole. “He’s here with unbelievable support,” added the three-time Open champion. “They’ve got record crowds who love him. Whether he can channel that or whether it’s: ‘Can I have a bit of peace?

“I think he’s going to be very conscious that there is so much going on around him. But if he can get inside the ropes and starts off nicely. Obviously he’s going to have unbelievable support but just because you have support, it doesn’t mean you are going to hit a great golf shot.

"You’ve got to do all the work as a golfer and you and your caddie are going to have to work hard. I don’t know if it is going to be a help or a hindrance to be really honest. “I think he has settled down since the Masters and I think the fact that he played nicely last week is probably going to be a help. I bet he can’t wait to just get started. Hopefully he hits a better tee shot than last time.”

McIlroy refused to speak to the media after all four rounds at the US PGA. Faldo added: I don't know the reasons behind it, but no, he obviously, something rattled him and he, said a few weird and wonderful things, but I guess he's settled down

Watch live coverage of The 153rd Open from Royal Portrush exclusively on Sky Sports and NOW from Thursday 17 July.