Rory McIlroy to make his debut in the Italian Open

Rory McIlroy has announced he will make his debut at the 79th edition of the DS Automobiles Italian Open at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club, from September 15-18.

McIlroy, who captured a record third FedEx Cup title at the Tour Championship on Sunday, will get his first look at the 2023 Ryder Cup venue on the outskirts of Rome as Italy prepares to host the 44th edition of golf’s greatest team event on September 29 - October 1, 2023.

The Northern Irishman is hoping to gather as much knowledge as possible of the revamped course as he prepares himself for a seventh consecutive appearance for Team Europe. 

“Not only is the city of Rome steeped in history but so too is their national open, so I am really looking forward to the Italian Open this year,” said McIlroy, the current leader of the DP World Tour Rankings in partnership with Rolex. 

“It’s the first time I have played in Italy, and I’ve heard the Italian fans are very passionate, so I’m excited to get out there and experience a new challenge.”

It is the third time Marco Simone has hosted Italy’s national open having previously done so in 1994 and 2021, the latter saw Dane Nicolai Højgaard crowned champion, and spectators can enjoy unrivalled vantage points of the on-course action as well as distant views of the famous Eternal City, including spectacular views of St Peter’s Basilica and of the Castle of Marco Simone.

McIlroy is also playing in next week's BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, a tournament he won back in 2014. 

But it's fair to say he is not looking forward to bumping into the 18 LIV Golf players that will be joining him on the West Course.

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