McIlory cool over Nike link

Rory McIlroy has played down recent speculation that he is set to sign a massive deal to join the Nike stable alongside Tiger Woods.

The latest reports being banded around in the press suggest that the world number one is set to put pen to paper on a huge contract with the American sporting goods giant worth $250million over 10 years. McIlroy's current deal with Titelist/Footjoy expires at the end of this year, making him the most prized free agent on the equipment market. McIlroy though is keeping his counsel and would prefer to maintain his focus on the season end as he looks to secure the Race to Dubai. "These rumours have been going around for years and it seems to always come up at this time of the year," McIlroy said. "I leave it up to Conor (Ridge, McIlroy's manager) to sort out as it leaves me to concentrate on my golf. "That's all I can do and besides I have enough to think about trying to get the ball in the hole. "Also I've got a very important end to my season coming up and I need to concentrate myself fully on that goal."