Luke Donald Highlights Rory McIlroy's Talent
Tiger Woods is widely regarded as one of golf's all-time greats, but British golfing legend Luke Donald has praised Rory McIlroy as the most talented golfer he has ever played with on the PGA Tour, including Woods himself.
Donald, born in 1977, began his PGA Tour career in 2002 and frequently competed against Tiger Woods during the latter's dominant years in the early 2000s. The 15-time major winner was often regarded as the best in the game during that period.
McIlroy, who turned professional in 2007, arrived a bit later but quickly made an impact. The Northern Irish player, now 36, co-founded Tomorrow’s Golf League (TGL) alongside Woods, showing a close professional connection.
“I've always said that of the guys I've played with out here on Tour, Rory has the most talent,” Luke Donald said in 2011 before the DP World Tour Championship. “He's young, he's got a great future ahead of him, and I see him winning lots of tournaments and lots of majors.”
Donald’s perspective suggests that while Woods is undoubtedly a legend, McIlroy’s natural ability stands out among his peers.
Career Overlap and Rivalry
- Luke Donald competed regularly against Tiger Woods during Woods' peak.
- Rory McIlroy joined the professional circuit five years after Donald’s start.
- Despite their different career timelines, Donald recognizes McIlroy's superior raw talent.
Both McIlroy and Woods continue to influence the sport strongly, with their partnership in TGL marking a new chapter.
Author's Summary
Luke Donald, an experienced PGA Tour player, ranks Rory McIlroy as the most naturally talented golfer he's faced, even above Tiger Woods, highlighting McIlroy's promising future.