Rory McIlroy needs to play in 15 tournaments in the United States next year

Rory McIlroy has insisted his decision to take out a full US PGA Tour card next season will not affect his commitment to Europe.

McIlroy needs to play in 15 tournaments in the United States in 2010, just four more than this year.

"I do not want anyone getting the idea that I am just going away to America because that is not what I am planning," said the world number 17.

"But I feel I will become a better golfer if I also play in America."

McIlroy has indicated next year he will play in Abu Dhabi and Dubai at the start of the year before heading stateside to prepare for The Masters.

After the US Open he will return for the Irish Open, the BMW PGA Championship and the Scottish Open before The Open at St Andrews in July with more events added after the FedEx Cup series to maintain his 2010 Race to Dubai bid.

"I can't thank the European Tour enough but I am just in a privileged position where I play wherever I want, and besides I earned enough money in US Tour events to get my card so I have taken out membership," he added.

"I want to become a better player and the best way to develop my game is to be playing more in the States, and playing a worldwide schedule."

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