McIlroy to play Irish Open

Rory McIlroy has confirmed he will play in the Irish Open next summer rather than return to Congressional, scene of his US Open victory this year, for the PGA Tour's AT&T National.

"There has been a lot of speculation on whether or not I will play the Irish Open next year, so I am happy to announce that I will definitely play the tournament," the 22-year-old Northern Irishman said in a European Tour statement.

"For me the Irish Open has always been, and will continue to be, one of the most important events on the global golf calendar."

He added: "It's our national open and it's obviously a title that I would love to win at some stage in my career.

"With Irish golf on such a high in recent years, it is important that we put on a good show not only for the home fans, but also for the global golf audience who will be watching the event on TV.

"A lot has been made of me joining the PGA Tour again next year, but in reality it's not a drastic change to the schedule I have played in recent seasons.

"It just means that I will be adding a few more events to my schedule in America in 2012.

"I'll continue to play a similar schedule of events in Europe and will obviously fulfil my commitment to the European Tour."

The Irish Open takes place on June 28-July 1.