Rory McIlroy Pulls Out Of British Open With Ankle Injury

No. 1 golfer in the world Rory McIlory announced Wednesday that his severe ankle injury will keep him out of next week’s British Open. The Northern Ireland superstar ruptured his left ankle while playing soccer with friends last weekend, but McIlory at first didn’t completely rule out defending his Open title. McIlroy reflected on the final decision on Twitter and Instagram posts.

The caption to the post reads: "After much consideration, I have decided not to play in the Open Championship at St. Andrews. I’m taking a long term view of this injury and, although rehab is progressing well, I want to come back to tournament play when I feel 100% healthy and 100% competitive. Thank you for all your support and best wishes. I hope to be back on the course as soon as I can. ... In the meantime, come on, Andy!!!"

It's currently unknown how long McIlory's recovery will take, but his absence completely opens up the field for American sensation Jordan Spieth, who's eyeing the Grand Slam after taking the Masters and U.S. Open this season.

Even after news of McIlory’s injury broke, the 26-year-old was still considered the Open favorite with Spieth close behind. Now, with a little more than a week until the contenders line up at St. Andrew's in Scotland, Spieth should stand as the player to beat.