Featured Image Credit: Getty/Sky Sports
Topics: Rory Mcilroy, US Open, Golf
Ben McCrum
Rory McIlroy has spoken out after storming out following second-place finish in the US Open
Ten years after his previous major win at the 2014 Open, McIlroy looked set to end the decade long drought as he stood on the 14th tee two shots ahead of Bryson DeChambeau.
But, as the American masterfully navigated the final holes, McIlroy struggled with back-to-back bogeys on the 15th and 16th holes.
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Another bogey for the 35-year-old on the final hole from less than four feet away, all but sealed his fate.
Minutes later, McIlroy watched in despair as DeChambeau snatched victory with a par on the hole 18, holding his lead at six shots under.
Just minutes later, the Northern Irishman controversially left the venue, declining to speak to media and failing to congratulate his competitor.
But now, McIlroy has finally broken his silence.
Writing in a statement on X, he said: “Yesterday was a tough day, probably the toughest I’ve had in my nearly 17 years as a professional golfer.
“Firstly, I’d like to congratulate Bryson. He is a worthy champion and exactly what professional gold needs right now.
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“As I reflect on my week, I’ll rue a few things over the course of the tournament, mostly the two missed putts on 16 and 18 on the final day.
“I feel closer to winning my next major championship than I ever have.
“The one word that I would describe my career as is resilient. I’ve shown my resilience over and over again in the last 17 years and I will again.”
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The Northern Irishman also confirmed that he would be taking a few weeks away from the sport before returning on July 13 for the Genesis Scottish Open, which he won last year.
McIlroy’s next opportunity at a major will come less than a week later, as the 152nd Open Championship tees off at the Royal Troon.