Rory McIlroy feels his recent injury absence may prove to be a "blessing in disguise".
The Northern Irishman makes his return from a rib problem at this week's WGC-Mexico Championship, live on Sky Sports.
The injury kept McIlroy off the golf course for seven weeks but while the 27-year-old concedes it has been a frustrating period of his career, he says he is feeling the physical benefits of the rehabilitation period.
"I feel like I'm probably stronger now than I was in November, December last year. Hopefully [the injury was] a blessing in disguise," McIlroy said.
"It's been tough to miss all these weeks especially with DJ (Dustin Johnson) winning, Jordan (Spieth) winning, Rickie (Fowler) winning, Hideki (Matsuyama) winning, Justin (Thomas) winning.
"It's been a really great group of guys that have won the last few weeks and it's been a little tough for me. Even though most of those guys are my friends, it's tough to be sitting at home watching those guys doing what they're doing whenever you can't get out there."
Johnson replaced Jason Day as world No 1 in February with victory at the Genesis Open but McIlroy will take top spot with a win in Mexico if Johnson finishes in a two-way tie for third or worse.
But McIlroy insists a return to the top of the rankings is not a priority as he makes his comeback, but is excited to be back in the running.
"I don't think we make too big a deal of it," he said.
"It's not as if I earn any more money as the world No 1, it's just nice to be able to say you're the best in the world at what you do.
"It's nice to have a chance and be in the conversation at least. I know if I play well the weeks that I play, that I'll have a chance to get back there."
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