Rory McIlroy in intriguing 'talks' as Masters champ set for big schedule decision

is reportedly in talks with Golf Australia about teeing up at the Australian Open later this year. The Northern Irishman has not featured in the competition since 2014, when he failed to defend his crown in Melbourne.

McIlroy has been in high demand since his victory in the victory which saw him complete a remarkable career grand slam, being welcomed with congratulatory cupcakes ahead of the Truist Championship at the Philadelphia Cricket Club's Wissahickon Course.

According to , Golf Australia are hoping that McIlroy will head to Royal Melbourne later this year to tee off after holding talks with his camp.

He last competed in the competition 11 years ago, when he beat Adam Scott at Royal Sydney. Tournament officials are also hoping that Cameron Smith, Scott and Min Woo Lee will also join McIlroy in Australia.

Golf Australia did not confirm that talks were ongoing with McIlroy, releasing a statement which read: "Golf Australia continues to work through the future of the men's and women's Australian Opens, with nothing formal to confirm at this time. We look forward to working with our partners to confirm and announce the future of both events in coming weeks."

McIlroy has spoken about the Australian Open previously and suggested that the event should be a 'fifth major'. Speaking last year, he said: "The market down there is huge with potential. They love golf. They love sport. They have been starved of top-level golf. And the courses are so good."

Fox Sports' Paul Gow feels that Golf Australia chief James Sutherland managing to strike a deal for McIlroy would be a major sign of intent from the official, especially due to the calibre of player it could attract going forward. He said: "He's huge in the game of golf, so it would be massive for us to have him back down here. It'd draw other players that want to play him, it'd be good for our younger players, if one of them gets a chance to play with him on Saturday and Sunday.

"I think there's a lot to play out, but I would love to see him here at the right price. This would be James Sutherland's highlight, without a doubt, if he can get McIlroy."