RORY McILROY cleared St Andrews with his 3-WOOD in advance of the Open later in the week.

The Northern Irishman, 33 years old, won the major back in 2014. He also won the PGA Championship in 2014.

He's in a form that suggests he could be a contender for a fifth major in his career this weekend.

His powerful shots at St Andrews range on Monday proved that this was the case.

McIlroy carried a 3-wood 291 meters - an incredible distance considering the club he chose.

He was hitting the driver over 300 yards later on as he displayed his skill in striking clean balls for the Scottish fans.

As it prepares for the Open Championship, the St Andrews course looks dry at the beginning of the week.

McIlroy could use this to bring golf back to its feet with his massive hitting.

The Open will begin on Thursday, July 14, and continue until Sunday.

After winning the title last year with 15-under, Collin Morikawa is now the defending champion.

Tiger Woods' chances of playing are now bleak after he had to use a buggy to get to the game.

Woods grimaced and hobbled as he got out of his golf cart to hit every shot at the JP McManus Pro-Am in Ireland.

He was making his first public appearance since May's USPGA Championship, when a third round of 79 made it clear that he was not going to continue the pain into the last day.

Woods, 46, was unable to attend the US Open last month due to his ongoing rehabilitation following the horrific injuries sustained in a 17-month-old car accident.