Rory McIlroy not afraid to switch drivers before Ryder Cup

Reporting from Gleneagles, Scotland —  The intense pressure of the Ryder Cup might not seem like an ideal situation to change equipment, but apparently that won’t stop Rory McIlroy.

Through early practice sessions this week, the world’s No. 1 player has been swinging a different model of Nike driver.

“This is a driver that I’ve actually been using and practicing with since June,” he said, adding: “I wouldn’t be putting it in the bag if I didn’t feel it was better.”

The media reminded him that Phil Mickelson switched clubs for the 2004 Ryder Cup and did not have a positive experience. McIlroy was a spectator at that event and recalled nearly getting beaned by a wayward Mickelson drive.

McIlroy believes his switch is less drastic, saying: “Hey, look, Phil changed from one equipment manufacturer to another.”

European captain Paul McGinley learned of the new club in advance and had no qualms with the decision.

“I’d never dream of giving a player a lesson or telling him what to do,” McGinley said.