Rory McIlroy will long remember the final round of the 2024 US Open and the moments when he was so close to victory. The Northern Irishman held the lead, but after bogeys on the 15th, 16th, and 18th holes, he spoiled all that he had previously achieved. On the other hand, his opponent, Bryson DeChambeau, remained calmer, more focused, and with a bit of luck, clinched another US Open title. Previously, he triumphed in this tournament in 2020.
Despite several days passing since the final round, impressions are still being gathered, and many individuals from the world of golf are reacting to the dramatic conclusion of the latest US Open edition. Popular figures from the golfing world, as well as journalists and experts, believe it was one of the best editions, although some are disappointed that McIlroy failed to lift a Major trophy after ten years.
Rory’s colleague, Shane Lowry, was one of those who reacted, expressing his support for McIlroy. Through social media (Instagram), he highlighted that golf may look like an easy game but is actually one of the toughest. Lowry believes people should be more understanding towards McIlroy, given the scrutiny he faces from golf fans and the media. Criticism intensified after the 35-year-old left the golf course without congratulating his opponent or speaking at the press conference.
“From the outside looking in… this game is easy. But in reality it’s the worst game of all. We are very fortunate to get what we do from this game but over the last 24 hours it’s hit me. We do it for not only ourselves but for our family, friends and fans.
What Rory has gone through is as tough as it gets in our game but I would like to encourage people if anything please be kind.”-Shane Lowry said, as quoted by Balls.
Rory McIlroy© Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images Sport
Lowry and McIlroy have had a great relationship for many years, and after their victory as partners at the Zurich Classic in April, their bond became even stronger. They showed excellent chemistry and skills at that competition, successfully preventing their opponents’ plans together. It seemed that after such a win, Rory would gain confidence and start aggressively. Despite some great performances afterward, his appearance at the US Open showed that Rory still feels pressure. The best move the 35-year-old could make is consulting with a sports psychologist and working on himself.
Shane Lowry after their victory: I feel like we played golf with a lot more freedom
Lowry, after such an important victory, emphasized that winning that tournament was a great lesson for them regarding the continuation of the season. The Irishman stresses that by playing in that tournament, they showed they have the quality needed for big things, but it’s essential to approach other tournaments differently. It seemed that when the two of them play without pressure, they feel a sense of freedom that helps them achieve great things. This is also one of the reasons why McIlroy will need to alleviate the pressure on himself.
“I feel like we played golf with a lot more freedom that week and I feel like it’s a lesson for the two of us for the rest of the season, to go and play golf how we played that week in New Orleans. I feel like if we can do that we both can be dangerous in the big tournaments. I just think the whole week of playing golf with a smile on your face, playing golf with a little bit of freedom goes a long way in this game. I think we both learned a lot. That’s how I feel anyway.”- Shane Lowry said.
Rory McIlroy after the US Open
Rory McIlroy, after yet another unsuccessful venture, this time at the US Open, admitted that it was one of the toughest days in his career. Fans were excited and hopeful, expecting McIlroy to silence his critics after ten years. However, McIlroy seemed to lose focus and concentration at crucial moments. It’s clear that pressure plays its part, and it’s difficult to stay calm when you’re close to your goal.
Such a defeat can only become a greater source of frustration for the 35-year-old, who will need to approach future tournaments with a different mindset. Rory McIlroy has to work on himself, maintain faith, and try to forget this tournament as soon as possible. That’s the only way he can get back on the winning track.
Golf is a sport where you don’t have much time to focus on past events, as shortly after one tournament, another challenge awaits. McIlroy must forget this as soon as possible and focus on the future.
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