Rory McIlroy was made to eat his words after ‘very average’ Jordan Spieth admission

Rory McIlroy has won four major titles and spent 122 weeks as the world’s No. 1 golfer – but he had his doubts about a rival who went on to become the top-ranked player

Rory McIlroy’s early assessment of Jordan Spieth didn’t quite hit the mark, as just two years later, Spieth ascended to become the world’s top-ranked golfer.

At a mere 35-years-old, McIlroy is considered one of golf’s most seasoned players. The Northern Irishman has witnessed an influx of new talent in the sport over the years.

With his four major wins and a previous stint of 122 weeks as the world’s No. 1 player, one might assume that McIlroy has a keen eye for spotting future stars on the green.

However, it seems that’s not always the case. In an interview with Normal Sport, McIlroy was asked which player he competed against during his rise through the ranks that he was surprised never made it professionally.

The four-time major champion named his teenage rival, Philip Francis. McIlroy remembered finishing second and third to him throughout their teenage years, but the UCLA and U.S. Junior golfer never turned pro.

McIlroy also mentioned a few other names, including Jamie Lovemark, who he played with at the Walker Cup. “You just look at him, you’re like, this guy is like 6’4 and absolutely ripped and swings the club perfectly,” McIlroy said.