The World No.1 has posted a photograph of himself in crutches and wearing a protective boot after rupturing the ligaments in his left ankle.

It now looks highly unlikely that McIlroy will take part in the high profile major, although he has so far refused to rule himself out of the tournament.

Lowry believes that McIlroy shouldn’t be criticized for picking up the injury in a kick around with his friends.

Speaking at the launch of his new Kartel clothing range at Greystones Golf Club the rising star of Irish golf said:

“Its’ not ideal for him because he’s wearing that boot and he’s going to have everyone in the media on his back now.

"But should he be playing football? I don’t know. He likes playing football, and he likes playing football with his mates. What’s wrong with that?

"Obviously his career’s after suffering now because of it, but it’s not the end of the world. No one’s after dying."”

Double major winner Jordan Speith crosses the Atlantic Ocean chasing his third consecutive major title, and his chances would be boosted by the absence of McIlroy.

H/T: Irish Mirror