Rory McIlroy has defended his gym training, after criticism from a golf journalist.
The Golf Channel’s Brandel Chamblee claimed McIlroy’s extensive training will lead to injury, comparing it to the problems Tiger Woods has had in his career.
“I say it with a lot of trepidation, because it’s a different era for sure and I don’t know the full extent of what he’s doing, but when I see the things he’s doing in the gym, I think of what happened to Tiger Woods,” said Chamblee.
“And I think more than anything of what Tiger Woods did early in his career with his game was just an example of how good a human being can be, what he did towards the middle and end of his career is an example to be wary of.
“It does give me a little concern when I see the extensive weightlifting that Rory is doing in the gym.”
McIlroy hit back, however, tweeting a video of him training
@GolfChannel @chambleebrandel pic.twitter.com/tz7lSH7Z6k
— Rory Mcilroy (@McIlroyRory) February 16, 2016
Re the squats it was the last set of 3x3 at 120kg(265lbs). Did 3x10 at 100kg(225lbs) before that. I'm 165lbs. I'm a golfer not body builder
— Rory Mcilroy (@McIlroyRory) February 17, 2016
He was also defended by 9-time Major champ Gary Player:
@McIlroyRory @GolfChannel @chambleebrandel Haha, too funny. Don't worry about the naysayers mate. They all said I would be done at 30 too.
— Gary Player (@garyplayer) February 17, 2016
Thank you Mr Player! Following your fine example ðŸ‹ðŸ¼ https://t.co/yjcY7mWezw
— Rory Mcilroy (@McIlroyRory) February 17, 2016
@McIlroyRory @GolfChannel Keep squatting. Keep lifting. Keep working out...my best. GP pic.twitter.com/D8c4JK0yyE
— Gary Player (@garyplayer) February 17, 2016
Rory has also explained why he trains so hard:
