Skip to content

Masters 2015: Amateur Bradley Neil impresses Rory McIlroy

Image: Bradley Neil: Practiced with Rory McIlroy at Augusta ahead of the Masters

Scotland's Bradley Neil has received the backing of world No 1 Rory McIlroy as he ponders when to turn professional.

Winning the Amateur championship at Royal Portrush last year secured Neil invites to the Masters and US Open in 2015, with the Walker Cup another important date on the calendar.

However, the 19-year-old Scot admits he may turn professional before September's clash with the United States at Royal Lytham and impressed McIlroy during their practice round together at Augusta on Monday.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

British amateur champion Bradley Neil played alongside Rory McIlroy in their practice round

"I rate his game really highly," said McIlroy, who was on the losing side in the 2007 Walker Cup. "He looks ready. He's very impressive. Hits it a long way, doesn't seem to be in awe of anything.

"So I just told him to go out there and enjoy it. Don't second guess yourself, commit to your shots, be decisive, all the things I tell myself.

Live Masters - Par Three Tournament

"If he feels ready (to turn professional), then he should go ahead and do it. He's definitely got the game. Even though he grew up playing links golf he hits it quite high and he can flight it.

"I can see him one day coming over here and doing well on the PGA Tour. He has the game for the style of golf to suit
playing over here."

More from The Masters 2015

Watch all four days of the Masters live on Sky Sports 4 - your home of golf. 

Around Sky