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McIlroy shows respect for rival Westwood

Rory McIlroy will have another shot at No. 1 © Getty Images

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Rory McIlroy believes the rivalry between he and Lee Westwood is healthy as the pair look to oust fellow Brit Luke Donald from the world No. 1 ranking.

The Northern Irishman had the opportunity to snare top spot after defeating Westwood in the semi-finals of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championships last week, but fell one step short as he lost the final to Hunter Mahan. McIlroy, who will have another chance to surpass Donald at this week's Honda Classic, says the best way to describe the relationship between he and Westwood is "competitive".

"I view Lee as one of the best players in the world," said McIlroy. "He has been one of the best players in the world for a few years. You know, he is one of the guys that when you look at a leaderboard or you look at a tournament field, he's one of the guys that you look for because he's been so consistent. You know if you want to win a tournament, you're going to have to get past him at some stage.

"I think we both respect each other for the way we play and how we go about our games. I know he's worked very hard the last few years on his body and on his game, and I feel like I'm doing the same. So you know, I think it's obviously very competitive but very respectful, as well."

McIlroy insists his rapid rise toward the pinnacle of world golf has changed neither his demeanour nor his approach to the game.

"Maybe for some people the past year might have been overwhelming with everything that's gone on," he said. "But I think if you have a certain type of approach and a certain type of mind, you can handle it.

"I feel like I'm pretty laid back and sort of take things in my stride and don't let it affect me too much. So I think I might have been able to handle things a little better than some people would have.

"This is what I've always wanted to be, which is a successful golfer. Still feel like I've got a long way to go to achieving what I want to. I don't feel like I have to live that much differently.

"I wouldn't change it for the world. This has always been my dream to play professional golf and to win big tournaments. I've been able to do that a little bit so far and it would be nice to keep continuing to do that. So you know, the day where I don't have the attention or I don't have the scrutiny is the day that I know something's wrong."

The Ulsterman will aim to take out the Honda Classic title in Florida in a field which contains Westwood, Tiger Woods, Ernie Els and Charl Schwartzel.

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