Rory McIlroy criticized by legend of the Ryder Cup as the winning streak continues

Rory McIlroy "lost confidence in himself" on a Sunday and the problem worsens, according to Paul McGinley.

Ulsterman failed to win a tournament after starting in the final group for the eighth consecutive time at the Arnold Palmer invitation on Sunday.

The world number 6, which will be 30 in May, began the year with five consecutive starts among the top six on the PGA Tour.

But before speaking before the Players Championship in Sawgrbad, the former captain of the Ryder Cup said McIlroy would feel "frustrated" after extending his winless streak to more than a year just a month before the Masters .

"It's great to see him play as regularly as he does because it's something that's been missing in his career," said Sky Sports.

"One of the things that has been fun to watch with Rory over the years is that when it's hot, it's very hot and usually win.

"It has not been a trend in the last two years. You know how talented he is, but golf is a matter of victory, and there is no question that he has a problem on Sunday and is gaining momentum. There are many questions asked.

"In Ireland, it is said that when dogs bark, keep walking because it has a lot of barking in the ear.

"People are wondering why he is not doing it on Sunday. Is it a trick question? No, he has won major tournaments in the past. But he lost confidence in him at the last day and that is why he does not win.

"There is a hesitation on Sunday. He does not ride on Sundays as he does when he is at his best. You can see that he holds back a lot of shots – that's a sign of doubt. "

McIlroy, who decided not to participate in McGinley's Irish Open this summer, missed the Cup four times in nine appearances at Sawgrbad.

"Rory is an inspiring player and when he's inspired he's great," McGinley added. But he did not get that inspiration on a Sunday.

"I think Rory is playing his best when he has a small token on the shoulder and that's what I would like to see Rory return to." When he enters the Sunday: Get out of my way, here I am.

"I think Rory is better when he has an advantage over him and has something to prove. Generally, when he has this attitude, it is at that moment that he burst. "