Rory McIlroy is one of the leading favorites to contend for the U.S. Open title at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club this week.

McIlroy already has a major championship under his belt this season, winning his second consecutive Masters title in April. And now, the Northern Irishman turns his full attention toward an elite test of golf in New York.

In fact, McIlroy feels Shinnecock is the "best championship test in the country."

"It's a great golf course. I think if everything goes the way everyone wants it, in terms of weather, setup — I think it's the best championship test in the country," McIlroy said. "It tests all aspects of the game. Driving, iron play — You need to have your wits about you around the greens. It's a lot of strategy, thoughtfulness."

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With high winds and firm conditions, there aren't expected to be many low scores at Shinnecock for the 126th playing of the U.S. Open.

McIlroy feels the setup at Shinnecock could favor European golfers like himself.

"It certainly wouldn't surprise me to see a few players from Europe and the UK in contention on Sunday," McIlroy said.

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McIlroy will begin the campaign for his seventh career major championship at 7:52 a.m. ET on Thursday, teeing off alongside fellow European golfers Ludvig Aberg and Tommy Fleetwood.