Rory McIlroy reveals ankle injury is improving as PGA Championship decision looms

Rory McIlroy has provided an update on the condition of his injured ankle, with rumours continuing to swirl that he could be fit enough to defend his US PGA Championship title next week.

The four-time major winner was unable to compete at The Open at St Andrews in July and was also forced to withdraw from the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational after suffering torn ligaments and joint capsule damage to his left ankle while playing football against friends.

Such an unfortunate mishap also looked to threaten McIlroy's participation in the year's final major at Whistling Straits, with rumours that he was set to participate in a practice round in Wisconsin on 8 August firmly denied by the player's publicist.

"Not booked for such a round. Still going through the ankle rehab process," Communications Clinic's Terry Prone said.

However, despite that denial, The Telegraph reports that he may now be ready to return with the necessary medical clearance. Indeed, McIlroy himself has lent weight to those rumours by revealing the extent of his swift recovery on social media.

In addition to uploading an Instagram video where he can be seen working out in the gym, the reigning world number one today posted a picture of the affected ankle that appeared to show a significant reduction in swelling, as well as considerable bruising.

"4 and a half and 3 and a half weeks ago respectively... I've come a long way since," he posted alongside the before and after snap.

McIlroy has since released another promising clip, this time showing him striking a ball with his driver on course.

The 2015 US PGA Championship begins on 13 August, with Jordan Spieth bidding to win his third major of the year. The American was denied the prestigious opportunity to become the first golfer in history to hold all four of the sport's majors in a single calendar year after finishing tied fourth at The Open, alongside Jason Day.

Zach Johnson emerged as the eventual winner of the famous Claret Jug, beating Marc Leishman and Louis Oosthuizen in a dramatic four-hole play-off.