Rory McIlroy posing topless as Michelangelo’s statue of David. It’s not an image you’d naturally conjure of the world No 1, but it is a remarkably striking one. And thank goodness for the kilt... The picture – which has been described as both “genius” and “weird” by various Twitter judges – appears on the front cover of Golf Digest’s latest issue. The prestigious magazine describes McIlroy as ‘the new model for greatness’. The Northern Irishman is gearing up for his latest crack at winning the Masters, which tees off in on April 9. A win on Augusta National’s hallowed fairways would ensure McIlroy’s third major in succession and a career Grand Slam. Only Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods hold that most prestigious honour of winning all four majors.Rory McIlroy has been pictured in stunning pose for magazine coverGolf's world No 1 apes Michelangelo's David in nod to his fitness regimeMcIlroy is preparing for another crack at winning the Masters next monthThe Northern Irishman reveals the keys to his brilliant recent formHe offers insight into his psyche and how he used to be 'too nice'
It is 10 years since Woods won his fourth and most recent Masters, and a _ victory at Augusta National would herald a new era in golf.