Many of Rory McIlroy's critics have been suggesting that his recurring injury problems are a result of hitting the gym too much.

The Northern Irishman missed the cut at last week’s US Open after recording a miserable first round of 78 has dismissed those suggestions saying that he hasn’t lifted weights in 2017.

The 28-year-old has suffered a dip in form and consistency in recent years, thanks in part to an array of career-blighting injuries, and he has failed to capture a major since he won the US PGA Championship back in 2014.

Many are pointing to an alleged over-reliance on gym work as the potential reason for injury issues, which include numerous back issues as well as a recurring long-term rib problem.

McIlroy, who finished four shots off the cut mark at Erin Hills, insists that this isn’t the case.