How Rory McIlroy’s Ankle Rehab Rebuilt His Golf Game

When Rory McIlroy ruptured ankle ligaments in 2015, he was forced to sit out The Open Championship, one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments. The injury could have been devastating for a player at the peak of his career. Instead, Rory used it as an opportunity to rebuild his physical foundation. His rehab centred on progressive load-bearing exercises, starting with balance drills and stability training, then moving into strength sessions focused on his glutes and hips, and eventually regaining explosive rotational power through plyometric work. He also did hours of proprioception training, teaching his body to trust the ankle again under the forces of his swing.

This wasn’t just about healing; it was about preparing for the demands of his future. By focusing on therapy, Rory prevented compensatory issues in his back and hips and ensured his swing mechanics stayed efficient. His comeback proved that treatment doesn’t just return golfers to the course; it gives them the tools to rise even higher.

At Swing Lab Performance & Therapy, we take the same approach Rory used and tailor it to each golfer’s needs. Our goal is not just to recover from injury, but to rebuild a strong, resilient foundation so you can confidently swing and play your best golf.

Sample Rehab Exercises / Management Tips We’d Use:

Balance drills: Single-leg stands on a wobble board for 30–60 seconds, 3 sets each leg.

Stability training: Lateral band walks to strengthen hip abductors and support the ankle.

Strength sessions: Glute bridges and hip thrusts, 3 sets of 12–15 reps.

Plyometrics: Low-impact jump squats progressing to rotational medicine ball throws.

Proprioception: Toe-tap drills on an unstable surface, eyes open, then closed.

Tip: Combining these exercises ensures your swing mechanics remain efficient while preventing long-term compensatory issues.

Ready to rebuild your foundation like Rory? 

Book your personalized rehab session at Swing Lab today and get back to playing your best golf.