Golf legend Jack Nicklaus, known affectionately in the game as the Golden Bear, has joined those hailing Rory McIlroy after the Northern Irishman's triumph in the US Open.
Nicklaus, who remains the golfer with the most major wins, said McIlroy is well ahead of where he was at the same age.
"I think this kid's going to have a great career - I don't think there's any question about it," he added.
Nicklaus hailed McIlroy's "unbelievable performance" and said the 22-year-old had played "fantastic golf" all week.
A number of professionals have joined Nicklaus in praising the latest golf star including his countryman Graeme McDowell who said McIlroy has the potential to eclipse what Tiger Woods has achieved in the game.
The new US Open champion recently revealed he will be taking three weeks out of the game to let his victory sink in but will return in time for the next major of the season – the UK Open at Royal St George's in July.