In-Depth Analysis of Rory McIlroy’s US Open ‘Choke’ and the Role of Caddie Harry Diamond

The golf world remains abuzz with discussions about Rory McIlroy’s caddie, Harry Diamond, following McIlroy’s dramatic loss at the 2024 US Open. Bryson DeChambeau clinched his third men’s major of the year on June 16, but attention has quickly shifted to dissecting McIlroy’s collapse at Pinehurst No. 2, where he lost by a single shot after leading by two with just five holes to play. This defeat, described by many as one of the most devastating of McIlroy’s career, has sparked intense scrutiny of both his performance and Diamond’s role as his caddie.

McIlroy, now 35, exited the course in evident frustration, eventually congratulating his LIV Golf rival and announcing a three-week hiatus from the sport before returning to defend his title at the Scottish Open. However, his caddie, Harry Diamond, has faced considerable criticism during this period of reflection.

Golf fans have expressed their dissatisfaction with Diamond on social media platforms like X, with many arguing that McIlroy needs a “proper caddie.” Despite the chorus of disapproval, former PGA Tour player Smylie Kaufman provided a more nuanced take during his appearance on GOLF’s Subpar podcast. Kaufman did not suggest that McIlroy should replace Diamond but emphasized that Diamond should have intervened more decisively, particularly during the pivotal moments of the tournament.

Reflecting on the critical moment at the 15th hole, where McIlroy’s shot missed the green and landed in a difficult position, Kaufman remarked, “Harry Diamond really should have stepped in on the 15th hole.” According to Kaufman, McIlroy had the wrong club in his hands at that crucial juncture. “I felt like Rory could have taken control of the championship on 15 if he just hits it in the middle of the green,” he said. “He hit a good shot, but it just was the wrong club. It was never a 7-iron for Rory, especially with a right flag.”

Kaufman elaborated that given the wind conditions and the heat, an 8-iron would have been the more appropriate choice. “It was an 8-iron all day, hit it in the middle of the green. I would say that was a huge, huge mistake,” he continued.

While Diamond’s critics argue that he fails to assert himself sufficiently, Kaufman noted that McIlroy typically relies on his own judgment, seeking Diamond’s input only occasionally. “Rory always, if he has a question, he’ll ask, but for the most part, Rory kind of goes and does his thing and he’s got a lot of feel,” Kaufman explained. This dynamic raises questions about the balance of power between player and caddie and whether a more assertive approach from Diamond might have altered the outcome at Pinehurst.

McIlroy’s long-time association with Diamond has been marked by mixed opinions. While some fans and pundits call for a change, those close to McIlroy consistently praise Diamond’s diligence and respect within the golfing community. They emphasize that his quiet demeanor should not be mistaken for incompetence. If McIlroy and Diamond were to part ways, it is likely that Diamond would quickly receive numerous job offers due to his reputation in the sport.

The debate over whether McIlroy would benefit from a more authoritative caddie has been ongoing for the past decade. Some suggest that a figure like Steve Williams, Tiger Woods’ former caddie, could provide the necessary guidance. Woods’ former coach, Hank Haney, opined on X, “I will say this, if Steve Williams was Rory’s caddie I can promise you he would have never hit a perfect flighted 7-iron that rolled over the green on 15 into a terrible lie because he would have hit an 8-iron and sent it straight up in the air and held the green.”

However, even Williams, who has worked with some of the game’s greatest players, has faced his share of criticism. For instance, he was caddying for Adam Scott when the Australian bogeyed his final four holes to lose The Open in 2012 at Royal Lytham and St Annes, underscoring the complex and often unpredictable nature of golf.

Ultimately, the decision on who should carry his bag rests with McIlroy. While speculation about potential changes will undoubtedly continue, McIlroy’s confidence in Diamond’s abilities remains a crucial factor. As the golfing world looks forward to his return, the debate over caddie dynamics serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between player and caddie, and the fine margins that define success and failure in professional golf.