'Favourite' McIlroy says 2011 Masters 'meltdown' was 'catalyst' for major wins

Northern Irish golf ace Rory McIlroy has insisted that he is not worried by his 2011 US Masters 'meltdown' as it was the catalyst for two major titles.

McIlroy blew a four-shot lead going into the final round at Augusta, but went on to clinch the US Open two months later and added a US PGA title in 2012 and he is the favourite for this year's Masters in the absence of world No.1 Tiger Woods.

According to the BBC, the former world No.1 said that he has no 'ill feelings' despite his 2011 meltdown at Augusta National as it was an important day in his career and a big learning curve, adding that he believes the event led him to become the person and the player he is now.

McIlroy further said that he learned exactly what not to do under pressure and contention and how to handle his emotions better on the course, adding that he is ready 'mind, body and equipment' for the tournament.

McIlroy completed his Masters preparations with a round of 65 to finish seventh in the Houston Open last week, the report added.