Rory McIlroy ally loses temper with critics of his caddie: “I’ll argue that with anyone!”

Rory McIlroy’s Ryder Cup teammate, Shane Lowry, has launched a strong defense of McIlroy’s caddie, Harry Diamond, ahead of the 2024 Open Championship. Lowry expressed his frustration with critics in an interview with BBC Sport Northern Ireland, saying their comments make his “blood boil.”

Diamond has been criticized by golf analysts, former players, and fans following the final round of the 2024 US Open. Despite McIlroy and Diamond’s success on various tours and in Ryder Cup victories, they have yet to secure a major championship together. During the US Open at Pinehurst No.2, McIlroy lost a two-shot lead with six holes to play, with his club selection decisions, particularly on the par-three 15th and par-four 18th holes, being questioned. McIlroy used a 7-iron on the 15th hole, missed long, and made bogey. On the 72nd hole, he chose to use a driver, a decision that surprised Sir Nick Faldo, resulting in another dropped shot. Bryson DeChambeau took advantage of this and claimed the third men’s major of the year.

Three weeks after the US Open, McIlroy responded to Diamond’s critics, including Tiger Woods’ former coach Hank Haney and former PGA Tour pro Smylie Kaufman. McIlroy dismissed Haney’s advice and defended Diamond, emphasizing that his caddie’s quieter demeanor doesn’t mean he is not effective. He noted that critics are quick to judge when things go wrong but remain silent when they win. McIlroy highlighted Diamond’s role in victories at Quail Hollow earlier in the year and the Dubai Desert Classic.

Lowry, backing McIlroy’s sentiments, stated that the criticism of Diamond angers him. He praised Diamond’s hard work and dedication, noting that he consistently arrives at tournaments early and prepares thoroughly. Lowry emphasized that Diamond is the best caddie for McIlroy and expressed his willingness to defend that stance against any detractors. He acknowledged the challenges Diamond faces, especially given the close-knit nature of Northern Ireland and Ireland, but expressed confidence that Diamond will persevere.

McIlroy is set to tee off at 10:09 am BST on Thursday at Royal Troon, playing alongside Tyrrell Hatton and Max Homa. Lowry, the 2019 Open champion, will play at 2:59 pm with Cameron Smith and Matthew Fitzpatrick.