Rory McIlroy swung a golf club for the first time in four days on Wednesday on the range at TPC Sawgrass ahead of the Players Championship.
The 36-year-old Northern Irishman was forced to withdraw from the Arnold Palmer Invitational after suffering with back spasms before his third round.
He has been home in Jupiter receiving treatment on his back over the past few days and arrived at TPC Sawgrass on Wednesday.
McIlroy warmed up on the range the day before the start of The Players Championship but only made his way up to his 6-iron.
Despite his back problems, McIlroy’s camp still expected him to play at The Players.
However, it goes without saying that his preparation ahead of his defence at TPC Sawgrass has been far from ideal.
Rory McIlroy provides injury update ahead of The Players Championship
McIlroy addressed the media in Ponte Vedra Beach on Wednesday afternoon.
He was asked by reporters how his back feels following a light warmup on the driving range.
“It’s better. It’s better than it was,“ McIlroy said.
“I hit up to a 6-iron on the range there and it felt okay. I’ve got about, I don’t know, is it 20 hours until I tee off, or until I’m supposed to tee off tomorrow.
“So, yeah, we’ll see. I’m taking it sort of hour by hour. But it feels better. That’s all I can say. Like I couldn’t stand to address the ball on Saturday morning on the range at Bay Hill, and it’s obviously better than that.
“So, yeah, probably a game-time decision, but all indications are pointing in the right direction, so hopefully good night tonight. The drugs are working wonders, and then just keep it going from there.“
Rory McIlroy’s update ahead of The Players is concerning
It must be said, that doesn’t sound great.
The fact he didn’t hit any club longer than a 6-iron should be a big worry for him and his fans.
McIlroy certainly doesn’t sound bullish about his chances of competing at The Players Championship.
Back injuries are notoriously difficult to manage. McIlroy would be wise not to rush back to action, especially with The Masters just one month away now.
That said, the five-time major champion will be desperate to defend his title at TPC Sawgrass this week.
It’s just such a shame that McIlroy has suffered a back injury in the build-up to The Players Championship – one of the best and most exciting tournaments on the schedule.