Erica Stoll theory emerges after Rory McIlroy’s spectacular US Open collapse

Colin Montgomerie, a renowned figure in golf, suggests that Rory McIlroy’s recent struggles in the US Open could be linked to his turbulent relationship with wife Erica Stoll. The 35-year-old McIlroy, who missed two crucial putts allowing Bryson DeChambeau to clinch the title, left Pinehurst visibly heartbroken before the trophy presentation. Following this, McIlroy announced a brief hiatus from golf to regroup after another missed chance to win a major, extending his 10-year drought.

McIlroy had recently revealed that he and Stoll were attempting to reconcile their marriage. Montgomerie, a former Ryder Cup captain and five-time major runner-up, believes that the emotional stress of his personal life may have impacted McIlroy’s focus during the tournament. “Going through a divorce is hard enough,” Montgomerie said on The Sports Agents podcast. “It’s incredibly difficult to maintain focus, especially on a challenging course like Pinehurst.”

Montgomerie noted that McIlroy’s situation was made public shortly before the tournament, adding to the pressure. The golf legend emphasized how mentally demanding the Pinehurst course is, describing it as an “emotional rollercoaster.” He believes the combination of personal turmoil and the quest to end a decade-long major championship drought created a significant distraction for McIlroy.

A key statistic supports Montgomerie’s theory: McIlroy had not missed a putt under three feet this season until he missed a crucial short putt on the 16th hole. Montgomerie pointed out that such a miss is likely not coincidental and may reflect McIlroy’s mental state.

Following the defeat, McIlroy announced on social media that he would be taking a break from golf to process everything and prepare for his upcoming title defenses at the Genesis Scottish Open and The Open at Royal Troon.