Rory McIlroy made a mistake leaving Pinehurst No. 2 early after crushing U.S. Open defeat

Scott Van Pelt, a renowned ESPN SportsCenter anchor, has criticized Rory McIlroy for his abrupt departure from the US Open without addressing the media, following his disappointing second-place finish to Bryson DeChambeau. McIlroy’s early exit from Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina came after he bogeyed three of the last four holes in the final round, extending his major drought to 10 years.

Van Pelt, who has always admired McIlroy for his thoughtful approach and champion spirit, expressed his disappointment on “The Mothership.” He compared McIlroy’s behavior to that of Phil Mickelson and Greg Norman, who, despite their devastating losses in major tournaments, showed grace and humility by facing the media and acknowledging their mistakes.

Van Pelt pointed out that McIlroy’s decision to leave the course without commenting on his performance would be remembered for a long time, especially given the dramatic nature of his collapse. He emphasized that McIlroy’s actions were uncharacteristic and surprising, given his reputation for being a thoughtful and introspective player.

McIlroy’s final-round struggles, including two missed short putts on holes No. 16 and 18, cost him the championship, allowing DeChambeau to secure his second US Open title. The Northern Irishman’s swift departure from the course, without addressing the media, has sparked debate and criticism within the golf community.

Van Pelt’s comments highlight the importance of sportsmanship and accountability in professional golf. While McIlroy’s disappointment is understandable, his decision to avoid the media and depart the course quickly has been perceived as classless by many. The incident has overshadowed McIlroy’s impressive performance throughout the tournament and has raised questions about his ability to handle pressure and adversity in high-stakes situations.

In contrast, DeChambeau’s victory has cemented his position as a rising star in the golf world, and his graciousness in victory has earned him widespread praise. The US Open champion showed respect for his opponents and appreciation for the opportunity to compete at the highest level, demonstrating a level of maturity and sportsmanship that has resonated with fans and fellow players alike.