Washington (AFP)

World number one Rory McIlroy, who is set to resume the North American golf circuit (PGA) Thursday at the Charles Schwab Challenge, disputed in camera, coronavirus forces, said he felt "safe" and "also sharp "as possible in Forth Worth, Texas.

"We really feel safe. Everything on the course, everything that has been set up for us, we feel that it is solid, very safe," McIlroy said at a press briefing on Wednesday.

"There is a disinfectant everywhere you look. I feel safe and I would say that everyone here feels the same," he insisted.

After three months of forced break due to the pandemic, the PGA season is about to restart at the Colonial Country Club, with a plateau worthy of a Major, since the first five in the world, among 16 players in the Top 20 are notably engaged. The only missing brand, the legend Tiger Woods.

Covid-19 tests, daily temperature measurements, wearing of masks and gloves, social distancing, are part of the protocols implemented by the PGA for golfers, caddies and various personnel, all kept in a "bubble".

An unprecedented context, which gives the next four days the appearance of a crucial test for golf, in its ability to organize tournaments despite the risks associated with coronavirus.

"This week is very important. Golf will be the center of the sports world," said McIlroy. "We have to show that we can play in a socially distant way, that we can organize a tournament while respecting all safety protocols."

Without the presence of the public, the Northern Irishman expects an atmosphere "strange without applause or reaction after good shots". "At the same time, this is what we have to do. This is what we are going to have to experience in the short term future."

All this in no way alters his ambition, especially since what he has missed most, for three months, "is the competition".

Lately, "I've been trying to play with top players, to compete against them. I feel like my game is pretty precise. I'm as sharp as I can be when coming here, "he said.

"The first two days will be a real test. I will learn a lot about myself and my game," he said.

© 2020 AFP