Rory McIlroy Addresses U.S. Open Fallout Amidst Travelers Championship Preparations
Rory McIlroy, fresh off a tumultuous U.S. Open, took a moment to clarify his state of mind as he prepares for the Travelers Championship. The 36-year-old golfer, speaking to reporters on June 18, acknowledged the need to move forward while indulging in some personal downtime.
At TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut, McIlroy discussed his approach to unwinding after a challenging final round at Oakmont Country Club, where he finished tied for 19th. “I certainly like to unwind and have a glass of wine on a Sunday night,” he remarked, adding with a hint of humor, “I wouldn’t say that’s the best recovery modality.”
His performance at the U.S. Open was marked by frustration, including incidents where he smashed a tee marker and threw a club down the fairway. McIlroy's reluctance to engage with the media throughout the tournament only added to the scrutiny surrounding him.
“Everyone has their own way of recovering from grueling weeks,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of both physical and mental self-care. “It’s about giving yourself a little bit of time to recharge.” His candidness about needing space after high-pressure events resonated with many in the sport.
As he navigates a packed PGA Tour schedule, McIlroy has carved out Mondays as his reset day. “I give myself that day,” he stated, recognizing its significance in regaining focus before the next tournament.
The Travelers Championship features a competitive field, including notable players like J.J. Spaun, Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa, and Xander Schauffele. McIlroy's recent victory at the Masters in April, which made him one of only six golfers to achieve a career grand slam, has left him grappling with motivation. “Look, I climbed my Everest in April,” he reflected. “After you do something like that, you’ve got to look for another mountain to climb.”
Despite his willingness to address reporters post-U.S. Open, McIlroy's decision to avoid media interactions during the week drew criticism from figures like Paul McGinley. “I don’t like to see that,” McGinley commented, suggesting that McIlroy’s behavior was uncharacteristic and indicative of deeper struggles.
“He looks like he’s had enough of everything,” McGinley continued. “This is not normal.” As McIlroy prepares for the upcoming tournament, the golf community watches closely, hoping for a return to form from one of the sport's leading figures.
