Kaymer backs McIlroy to recover from Masters collapse

World number one Martin Kaymer has backed Rory McIlroy to challenge again for majors after his Masters collapse.

McIlroy entered day four at Augusta leading the tournament by four shots, only to card a disastrous final round of 80 to finish joint 18th.

The German, however, says that the Northern Irishman will be "many, many times in contention for majors".

Kaymer added: "People should never forget that he is only 21 years old".

McIlroy led the Masters from the opening day, carding a stunning 65 which was followed by a second-round 69 and a 70 on day three to raise hopes that he may land his first major title.

However, his game unravelled on the back nine of his final round and South Africa's Charl Schwartzel took full advantage with a 66 to claim the Green Jacket.

USPGA champion Kaymer is confident McIlroy will emerge mentally stronger from his Augusta experience and continue to challenge for the four biggest prizes in golf.

"The life he has and the position he was in [leading the Masters] is not normal [for a 21-year-old]. Everybody has to learn how to be in the position that he has been in. He is a fantastic player", he said.

Kaymer also commented that he views England's Lee Westwood as his main rival in tournaments and the world rankings, rather than 14-time major winner Tiger Woods.

When asked who his biggest threat was, Kaymer said: "Definitely Lee Westwood. The way he has played the last couple of years... he should definitely have won a couple of majors by now".

Westwood could reclaim the world number one spot with victory at the Indonesian Masters, while countryman Luke Donald could top the rankings for the first time should he win the Heritage US Tour event.

On the prospect of being knocked off the top spot in the rankings, Kaymer said: "It's important to be number one, but it's not the most important thing in my life.

"One day it will change and I will be two, three, five. Hopefully it does not happen, but it's not something I am scared to lose and as long as I try 100% that's all I can do."