Rory McIlroy wants to see Tiger Woods back in golf "soon"

Former world number one Rory McIlroy has claimed that golf without Tiger Woods "doesn't bear thinking about".

Woods, who has won 14 Major titles during his career, announced on Tuesday that there is "no timetable" for his return to the course.

The American, who has slumped to 400 in the world rankings, recently underwent two operations in a bid to solve his ongoing back problems.

On Instagram, McIlroy wrote: "Wishing my idol and friend a speedy recovery. Golf without him doesn't bear thinking about. Hope to see you back on the course soon @tigerwoods."

Wishing my idol and friend a speedy recovery. Golf without him doesn't bear thinking about. Hope to see you back on the course soon @tigerwoods

A photo posted by Rory McIlroy (@rorymcilroy) on Dec 1, 2015 at 2:03pm PST