Rory McIlroy hits back at ‘unsolicited advice’ after wife Erica Stoll’s Scottish Open call

Rory McIlroy has addressed the “unsolicited advice” he received following his disappointment at the US Open. The Northern Irish golfer was on track to secure his fifth major title but stumbled in the final holes, allowing Bryson DeChambeau to claim victory. McIlroy took a month-long break from golf after the heartbreak at Pinehurst in North Carolina.

Returning to action on Thursday, McIlroy delivered a strong performance with a five-under par at the Renaissance Club, kicking off his Scottish Open title defense impressively. Reflecting on the aftermath of the US Open, McIlroy said, “I’ve always liked to figure things out for myself. I’m not really one to reach out for advice, but there was a lot of unsolicited advice coming my way too.” He emphasized the importance of personal reflection, adding, “I’ve always wanted to own my success and disappointments. Giving yourself that time to reflect is always a good thing.”

Discussing his first round, the 35-year-old golfer admitted to a shaky start but found his rhythm as the game progressed. “It was a bit of a slow start, a bit up and down. I hit a few shots early on which I haven’t seen in practice over the last couple of days, which was a reminder that golf isn’t as easy as I sometimes think it is,” McIlroy said. He noted that he began to play better on the back nine, hitting good drives and iron shots, though he felt he could have scored even lower. “It was as gettable as you’re going to get this golf course. There’s a lot of low scores and for good reason. Hopefully, the course can start to play a little bit tougher over the weekend.”

McIlroy received support in Scotland from his wife Erica Stoll, who decided to attend the event after the couple had filed for divorce in May. Despite appearing to end their marriage, they have reversed that decision. Stoll, who was present at the US Open with their family, walked the Renaissance Club course alone, smiling as she watched McIlroy. The reigning champion was seen wearing his wedding ring, which he had not worn during tournaments in May and June.