Tom McKibbin admits what he finds ‘annoying’ now concerning Rory McIlroy

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It is easy to see why comparisons are made between Tom McKibbin and Rory McIlroy, with the pair both growing up learning to play golf at Holywood Golf Club.

Of course, Rory McIlroy has long been considered one of the most naturally talented players the game has ever seen, with the 35-year-old winning four major titles during his career. He certainly has the ability to win many more before he calls time on his playing days.

Tom McKibbin meanwhile, is still establishing himself on the DP World Tour. The 21-year-old won the Porsche European Open in Germany last year. And this season, the youngster finds himself 17th on the Race to Dubai as the final events loom.

Obviously, there is additional significance in this week’s event on the DP World Tour for the likes of McKibbin and McIlroy, with Royal County Down hosting the Irish Open. It is the first time the event has returned to the course since 2015 – when McKibbin was just 12 years of age.

Tom McKibbin asked about Rory McIlroy questions

It turns out that McKibbin may not be entirely pleased about how often he is asked about McIlroy, as it was put to him in his press conference that it must get irritating hearing about McIlroy so frequently.

“Yeah, a little bit. A little bit annoying now, but yeah, it’s a little bit – I obviously hear it nearly every time,” he said.

“So it’s a little bit annoying but it’s not too bad. Obviously chatting about him or things about him, means I’m doing something wrong.”

Why youngster may be frustrated with speaking about McIlroy

You can definitely understand why McKibbin may not be a fan of just how often he is asked about McIlroy. Ultimately, he is 21 years of age, he has been a professional for less than 18 months, and he has played in just two major championships.

He will be looking to forge his own path over the coming years, so it will do him few favours to compare him with McIlroy, particularly when you consider what McIlroy achieved so early in his career. He was 22 years of age when he won his first major title, at the 2011 US Open.

Clearly, he will have huge respect for everything McIlroy has achieved in the game and they do seem to be close. But he is obviously hoping to create such a buzz that people feel that they have no reason to ask him about the world number three any longer.