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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Michael Scully

Rory McIlroy was inspired by Ireland's historic success before thrilling Open round

Rory McIlroy was inspired by the Ireland rugby team's historic success in New Zealand on Saturday - but he will be trying to keep distractions to a minimum as he chases another Claret Jug.

McIlroy got up early to watch Ireland beat the All Blacks in Wellington and record their first Test series victory on New Zealand soil.

The 33-year-old then continued those good feelings on the golf course when shooting a 66 to head into the final round tied for the lead with Norway's Victor Hovland.

READ MORE: McIlroy and Hovland set up Open Sunday showdown after thrilling third round

Looking to win his first major championship in eight years, McIlroy was asked how he was going to prepare for the final 18 holes at St Andrews.

He said: "Yeah, there's no rugby to watch tomorrow morning, unfortunately."

"I watched two rugby matches this morning, which was great.

"Got a little emotional when Ireland won, actually. It was an unbelievable achievement for them."

McIlroy will be the crowd favourite at the Old Course to end his long way for a fifth major title and a second Open Championship after winning at Hoylake in 2014.

But he plans to distance himself from all the hype ahead of a final charge.

He said: "The tee times here are late. So I've been sort of taking a little midmorning nap the last couple of days. Just try to do the same thing again.

"I usually get to the golf course three hours before and do a gym session and get some treatment, physio and lunch and everything else.

"I get my day in pretty well with just keeping myself busy. And certainly phone away and just sort of get into my routine."

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