Rory McIlroy was in contention at the Arnold Palmer Invitational before a poor third round saw the Northern Irishman slip out of contention at Bay Hill

Rory McIlroy went to extraordinary lengths with his equipment for the final round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, but to little avail.

Rory McIlroy had to settled for a tie of 15th place at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. The Northern Ireland golfer posted a final round of 72 on Sunday to finish on -3 for the tournament. That was eight shots adrift of American Russell Henley (-11) who prevailed at Bay Hill, one shot ahead of second-placed Colin Morikawa (-10).

Rory McIlroy has discovered his group for The Players Championship after faltering in the final two days to fade away from contention at the Arnold Palmer Invitational

Rory McIlroy again struggled with short putts during the first round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, which may prove costly.

The four-time Major winner reportedly changed out his driver, 3-wood, 5-wood and 3-iron, as well as adding a gap wedge to his bag prior to his final round at Bay Hill