Devastated Rory McIlroy sees US Open official rescue him from Netflix film crew

A compassionate USPGA official intervened to give a distraught Rory McIlroy some much-needed space following his disappointing finish at Pinehurst. McIlroy’s decade-long quest for another major victory was extended after he lost a two-shot lead at the US Open. Netflix camera crews, eager to film content for “Full Swing,” the popular series about the PGA Tour, were closely following the Irish golfer as he returned to his dressing room. McIlroy, who had been on the verge of breaking his major championship drought, saw his hopes dashed when his putting faltered in the final moments, allowing Bryson DeChambeau to claim the title.

USGA CEO Mike Whan, interrupting his duties at the post-tournament ceremony, noticed McIlroy and his team making their way through Pinehurst’s clubhouse corridor, with a Netflix crew trailing them, armed with cameras and boom mics, as reported by golf.com. Concerned about the situation, Whan reportedly asked the security guards, “Do we want them in there?” This question underscored his empathy for McIlroy, who had just endured a heartbreaking moment on the course and needed some privacy.

A few minutes later, McIlroy emerged from the locker room, visibly dejected, carrying his bag over his shoulder. He was joined by his caddie, Harry Diamond, and his agent, Sean O’Flaherty. The trio walked in silence, a stark contrast to the earlier bustling activity.