It was impossible, at least from afar, not to think of Pinehurst. Rory McIlroy stood framed against the water on the 18th hole at TPC Sawgrass, waiting for the moment when he would stand over a four-foot,

Rory McIlroy will return for a Monday play-off as he looks to win a second Players Championship “the hard way”. McIlroy will face JJ Spaun across the final three holes at TPC Sawgrass, with the play-off starting at 1pm UK time.

Rory McIlroy and J.J. Spaun wound up tied after a four-hour rain delay Sunday at the Players Championship and have to return Monday for a playoff to decide who wins the richest tournament in golf.