Audacious Rory McIlroy claims are way off the mark but golf star let himself down
COLUMN: Rory McIlroy can be pleased with his performance at the US Open
When Rory McIlroy finally reflects on his US Open campaign, he will be proud of how he earned such a rich position on the final day.
The Northern Irishman let himself down by not wishing congratulations to winner Bryson DeChambeau and storming home.
But with all that McIlroy has been through recently – both on and off the course – cut the guy a bit of grief.
McIlroy has every right to feel angry after wasting a two-shot lead.
It was one of the biggest chokes in recent memory, missing two three-foot putts on the last five holes. But the pile-on has been unnecessary.
Pundits and players have been queueing up to rub salt in the wounds. There have even been audacious calls to sack his caddie Harry Diamond.
The spotlight was heavily focused on McIlroy’s marriage with Erica Stoll after he filed for divorce and then U-turned on the eve of the tournament.
It can’t have been easy for him to come out and put that stress aside to deliver his best golf.
McIlroy’s long-term friend Shane Lowry took to social media to plead “please be kind”.
It’s the least everyone can do after McIlroy provided four days of exciting drama.