After his tough loss at the US Open on Sunday, Rory McIlroy decided to take a break from golf.
He was so close to winning at Pinehurst No.2 but missed two short putts, letting Bryson DeChambeau win with an amazing finish. This loss hurts more than any other in the past decade for him.
McIlroy left quickly without talking to reporters and flew home before DeChambeau even got his trophy. He then said he wouldn’t play in this week’s Travelers Championship.
Support from Jay Monahan and Xander Schauffele:
The Travelers Championship is a big event for the PGA Tour, but Jay Monahan supports McIlroy’s choice to skip it. “I’ve been texting with Rory,” Monahan said. “His statement shows exactly how he feels.”
Monahan believes everyone needs time off sometimes, especially when playing at such a high level. Even Xander Schauffele agrees that focusing on what you need is important .
Fans might think it’s smart for Rory to take some time off after such a hard loss.
“We’ll have a great Travelers Championship and can’t wait for Rory’s return in Scotland,” added Monahan.
Rory McIlroy misses from 2ft 6in.
— Golf Monthly (@GolfMonthly)
McIlroy called Sunday his hardest day as a pro and won’t play again until the Scottish Open next month, just before The Open at Royal Troon. Schauffele also thinks taking time away is best after such a huge disappointment.
“As competitors, we’ve all had ups and downs,” said Schauffele. “It’s tough for sure.”
He believes McIlroy and his team are likely discussing what went wrong and that stepping back can help see things more clearly because being too close can cloud judgment.
Many wonder how McIlroy will handle losing the US Open like this since he seemed set to win with just four holes left. Questions about his choices, putting skills, mental strength, and even having Harry Diamond as his caddie have come up since then—issues he’ll face when he’s back under the spotlight.
What do you think? Should Rory take more time off or get back into action soon?
