McIlroy joins traditional dance troupe to 'get into rhythm' ahead of Abu Dhabi Golf Championship

Northern Irish golf ace Rory McIlroy has reportedly joined a local dance troupe in Abu Dhabi, albeit swirling golf clubs instead of the traditional sticks, in a bid to 'get into the rhythm of the season'.

McIlroy, along with reigning British Open champion Phil Mickelson, joined a local Al Razfa dancing troupe ahead of this week's Abu Dhabi Golf Championship where McIlroy and Mickelson will tee off against fellow top-10 players Henrik Stenson and Sergio Garcia.

According to CNN, the former world number one, who put a miserable 2013 season behind him with victory in the Australian Open in November, said that the dancing was a 'bit of fun and a great way to get into the rhythm of the season'.

McIlroy further said that he feels dancing is like golf as it needs a lot of practice, adding that in dancing, some skilful finger work and balancing is needed, similar to the sport.

On New Year's Eve, McIlroy announced on Twitter his engagement to Danish tennis player Caroline Wozniacki, whom he has been dating since September 2011, the report added.