Rory McIlroy to play in next week's British Masters at Close House

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter

Published: September 18 2017 | 17:14

Last updated: September 21 2017 | 12:29

World number eight Rory McIlroy explains that his decision to take part in the British Masters is down to his desire to end 2017 "on a high".

Four-time Major champion Rory McIlroy has added next week's British Masters to his schedule as he attempts "to end 2017 on a high".

The Northern Irishman, who has slipped two spots to eighth in the latest world rankings, will headline the event at Close House in Northumberland.

McIlroy is seeking his first win of an injury-plagued year in the event, which he knows well having made by his professional debut in it and his first start in a professional event.

"Teeing it up next week gives me one more chance to end 2017 on a high," he told the European Tour website. "I kind of had it in the back of my mind that if I didn't make the Tour Championship then there was a chance to tee it up at Close House."

Lee Westwood will host the tournament, which also includes the likes of Masters champion Sergio Garcia and several of McIlroy's Ryder Cup teammates.