Rory McIlroy will be "gutted" to miss out on the defence of his Open title next week, according to Ryder Cup team-mate Graeme McDowell.
McIlroy revealed on Monday that he had suffered a "total rupture" of the anterior talofibular ligament in his left ankle while playing football with friends at the weekend.
The 26-year-old pulled out of this week's Scottish Open at Gullane as a result and, although he initially did not rule himself out of competing at St Andrews, the four-time major winner has now revealed he is taking a "long-term view" of the injury and will remain on the sidelines to continue his rehabilitation.
The clash between McIlroy and Masters and US Open champion Jordan Spieth in the 144th Open had been eagerly anticipated and McDowell said: "It's hugely disappointing, especially with him and Jordan and everything that's going on. It was looking a really exciting Open for all involved.
"I was reading between the lines as to what the description of his injury was. I wasn't expecting him to play in the Open, so I'm not surprised he's pulled out. But it's a massive blow for the tournament, he's the world's number one player. We hope for a speedy recovery.
"No one would love to stop Jordan in his tracks next week more than Rory. With the fun rivalry going on and everything, he's going to be gutted. I saw the golf course last Saturday and I believed that Rory was rightly a favourite. I thought he'd get it done round there."
Former US Open champion Justin Rose added: "I would have been surprised if he was there given the initial diagnosis but it's a big shame for him and the tournament."
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