Rory McIlroy: World number two can cope with Masters pressure, says Phil Mickelson

McIlroy, who has already won twice this season on the PGA Tour, led after each of the first three rounds at Augusta in 2011 but shot an 80 on Sunday to finish in a tie for 15th.

American Mickelson, who won his first major after 13 years on tour and has been runner-up six times at the US Open, does not feel McIlroy’s history with the tournament is preventing him from the elusive victory.

“His ability to compartmentalise all the things that have transpired in the past is a strength of his so I don’t think it’ll be an issue or I don’t think that’s what’s holding him back from winning the Masters,” added the 54-year-old.

Mickelson, who will play in LIV Golf’s Miami event this week, also believes the course at Augusta National is suited to McIlroy’s game.

“I think he drives the ball so long and straight that he has a huge advantage on that golf course.

“He and about 20 guys that drive it like he does will have an advantage of playing it a certain way.”