Rory McIlroy is gearing up for his return to competitive golf at the Scottish Open, his first tournament since the US Open.
Despite his break, discussions around his performance at Pinehurst No.2 continue, with former PGA Tour professional Smylie Kaufman criticizing McIlroy’s final round collapse.
Last month, McIlroy was poised to win the US Open, holding a comfortable lead before a disastrous final four holes allowed Bryson DeChambeau to claim victory. A critical point came at the 15th hole, where McIlroy bogeyed after a poor tee shot, leading to debates about his decision-making and his caddie, Harry Diamond’s, advice.
McIlroy’s former agent, Chubby Chandler, explained that McIlroy’s strong-willed nature often means he overrides advice, even from close confidants like Diamond. Chandler emphasized that once McIlroy decides on a shot, it’s challenging to change his mind.
Smylie Kaufman, speaking on the ‘Subpar’ podcast, reignited the debate, suggesting Diamond should have been more assertive.
Kaufman criticized the club choice on the 15th hole, arguing McIlroy should have used an 8-iron instead of a 7-iron, which would have been better suited to the conditions. He stated:
“It was a huge, huge mistake. Harry should have stepped in. Rory didn’t have the right club in his hands.”
McIlroy’s misstep on the 15th tee, where he overhit the ball and ended up double-putting, was pivotal. Kaufman believes McIlroy had the chance to secure the championship if he had chosen differently. He added:
“Rory could have taken control on the 15th if he just hit it in the middle of the green.”
As McIlroy prepares for the Scottish Open, these critiques and the lessons from his US Open experience may influence his strategy. The golf world will be watching to see how he responds to these challenges and whether he can reclaim his form.
