Rory McIlroy shows true colours after falling short to Ryder Cup teammate at Canadian Open

Rory McIlroy was aiming to win the RBC Canadian Open for the third time in his career, but he finished three shots behind the champion, Robert MacIntyre. The Northern Irishman displayed sportsmanship, congratulating his Ryder Cup teammate on his victory.

MacIntyre’s win at the RBC Canadian Open marked his first-ever PGA Tour victory. He secured the title by a single shot ahead of runner-up Ben Griffin, with McIlroy finishing two shots further back despite an impressive six-under-par 64 in the final round.

Starting the final day seven shots behind MacIntyre, McIlroy had a significant challenge ahead. He quickly made his presence felt with four birdies in the first six holes, while MacIntyre bogeyed his opening hole. However, McIlroy’s momentum slowed, adding only two more birdies over the remaining 12 holes.

MacIntyre, on the other hand, maintained his composure, shooting a two-under 68 to secure his long-awaited PGA Tour victory. The Scottish golfer, originally from Oban, had recently moved to the United States after earning full playing status on the PGA Tour thanks to his 2023 Race to Dubai finish. Adjusting to life in the U.S. had been challenging for MacIntyre, who previously admitted to feeling lonely and missing his friends and family back in Europe.

This week, however, he had the support of a familiar face—his father, Dougie, who served as his caddie. Their collaboration culminated in an emotional victory. Despite falling short, McIlroy praised MacIntyre’s achievement. “Bob and I are separated by a body of water in the Irish Sea, but we’re not that far from each other where we grew up in Oban and Belfast,” McIlroy said.

Reflecting on MacIntyre’s adjustment to the PGA Tour, McIlroy added, “It’s a big culture shock compared to the place where he grew up in Oban. Traveling around America, it’s a different world. Some people adapt a little quicker than others. Everyone has to try to find their right rhythm.”

Speaking shortly before MacIntyre’s victory was confirmed, McIlroy expressed his hopes for his teammate: “It looks like Bob’s still figuring that out. It would be great to see him hang on and get that first PGA Tour win.” For MacIntyre, the win was particularly special with his father by his side. “Goose bumps,” MacIntyre described his feelings. “It’s incredible. It’s a dream of mine to play golf for a living. It’s been a dream of mine to win on the PGA Tour, and I just can’t believe I did it with my dad on the bag. The guy’s taught me the way I play golf.”

This triumph in Canada not only marked a significant milestone in MacIntyre’s career but also highlighted the support and bond between him and his father.