"To play with the number one golfer in the world and arguably one of the best players who has ever lived definitely gets the juices flowing right away," the 22 year-old said.

He spent Tuesday practising with Woods, and says the American is on good form.

"It was good. He seems like he's happy with everything - I know he's definitely happy that he feels like he's back to 100% fitness, which is great for him.

"He hit a lot of good shots out there, so I think he's worked hard in the off-season and looks like his game is in pretty good shape."

Having finished second in last years' event, the Northern Irishman is determined to improve on his best this week.

"It's a golf course that I feel suits me," he said.

"Maybe doesn't suit me as well as it does Martin Kaymer, but I'm getting there."

McIlroy has fully recovered from the bout of dengue fever which threatened his last appearance in the Middle East at the Dubai World Championship last year, and is relishing the opportunity to start the 2012 season alongside two of the best golfers in the world.

"It's not often you get excited about Thursdays and Fridays but this is one of those times," he explained.