What a difference a year has made for Rory McIlroy, who 12 months ago tarnished his reputation by quitting during the second round of the PGA Tour's Honda Classic.

McIlroy's head was a mess and his game was not much better at this time last year as he walked off the course citing a toothache, an excuse he later admitted was rather lame.

The Northern Irishman, who at the time was defending champion, was surprised by the widespread criticism he received for his withdrawal, but on the eve of this year's event he seemed genuinely contrite as he recalled the incident.