Rory McIlroy: World Number Four Says Canada's Ideal Preparation for US Open

Rory McIlroy says he should drive the ball better than he did last week in Canada

Rory McIlroy believes the Canadian Open in Ontario will offer him an ideal preparation for the US Open starting next Thursday at Pebble Beach.

McIlroy, 30, leaves the track in Canada during last week's Memorial Tournament.

"I am completely focused on this week," said the four-fold big winner.

"[But] If I play well here this week and have good control over my ball and my distance control, it will be useful to me next week."

He added: "This is not just a preparation week, this is a very prestigious tournament, one of the oldest tournaments in the world where I would like to add my name."

His first appearance in the world tournament, McIlroy says he has to control the ball better than in Muirfield Village if he wants to challenge in H amilton

"There is a variety of different tee shots that you must hit, with different clubs, and the greens will be a similar kind of grass.

"The rough is pretty thick too, so if you miss it in the rough, you do well to pick it up at the green.

"And then if you miss greens, it will be pretty similar in terms of the lies you get [at the US Open]."

McIlroy enters into a partnership with Matt Kuchar and Webb Simpson during his opening two rounds.

This week's event will give McIlroy & # 39; s Northern Irish countryman Graeme McDowell another opportunity to conquer a place in The Open Championship in his hometown Portrush in July.

Three finalists in the top 10 in Canada who have not yet secured open spaces will be entitled to play at Royal Portrush.

The Irish trio Shane Lowry, Padraig Harrington and Seamus Power win the Canadian event.

The field also includes the defense of US Open champion and recent USPGA winner Brooks Koepka, world number two Dustin Johnson and Justin Thomas.