McIlroy's ex-agent claims star has 'lost love for golf' as Players bid fades

Rory McIlroy's inconsistent showings at the Players Championship have been compounded as his former agent suggested the World No.2 appeared 'disinterested' heading into the tournament.

Last week, a mixed outing at the Arnold Palmer Invitational saw him a long way off the pace as he finished in 21st in the dress rehearsal for the PGA Tour's flagship tournament. Descending on TPC Sawgrass for the Players, the former world No. 1 made a bright start on day one with 10 birdies part of a round of 65.

READ MORE: Scottie Scheffler visibly distressed as World No.1 plays through pain barrier at Players His inconsistent displays so far in Florida have done nothing to suggest that the four-time major winner is hitting his stride as he prepares for another tilt at glory in the Masters next month.

"That’s what it looks like to me. There is no spark in his eyes, no twinkle. He had about an hour and a half on Saturday afternoon where he was like the old Rory, but you know that bouncy step he has when he’s playing well, it’s not there, and I’m sure that year out of his life, or 18 months, took its toll.

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