Rory McIlroy to play in the Australian Open

Twice major-winning Rory McIlroy has revealed he will play in the Australian Open in Sydney in November.

It will be the first time he has played in the tournament since 2007.

"It is pretty much locked in place I will be playing the Australian Open in Sydney," he said.

"It's been a couple of years since I last competed in an Australian Open. I competed in 2006 when I was still an amateur and then a year later after just turning pro.

"Both were in Sydney and I've always enjoyed myself in Sydney so I am very much looking forward to returning to Royal Sydney."

McIlroy confirmed his appearance after this week finishing in a share of eighth place in the defence of his PGA Championship title at Oak Hill.

The Australian Open will be staged at the Royal Sydney course from November 28 to December 1.

In his last Australian Open appearance in 2007 McIlroy finished well down the field in a share of 59th with scores of 74, 74, 76 and 77.

McIlroy is no stranger to Sydney. Earlier this year his girlfriend Caroline Wozniacki contested the Sydney International and the pair were photographed atop Sydney Tower. McIlroy has the photograph on his Twitter page.

McIlroy said he has also accepted an invitation a week later to play in the Tiger Woods hosted World Challenge from December 5-8 at the Sherwood Country Club course in suburban Los Angeles.

"It will be a great two weeks to finish up my year so I'm looking forward to competing in both events," he said.