Rory McIlroy will not be defending his title at this year's Open.

The World No 1 golfer confirmed that injury will rule him out of action next week at St Andrews.

McIlroy suffered the ankle ligament injury while playing football match and on Instagram he confirmed that recovery will not come in time to compete at the peak of his powers:

 

After much consideration, I have decided not to play in the Open Championship at St. Andrews. I’m taking a long term view of this injury and, although rehab is progressing well, I want to come back to tournament play when I feel 100% healthy and 100% competitive. Thank you for all your support and best wishes. I hope to be back on the course as soon as I can.... In the mean time, come on Andy!!!

A photo posted by Rory McIlroy (@rorymcilroy) on Jul 8, 2015 at 8:38am PDT