Rory McIlroy sent nine-word message by ex-Tiger Woods coach after disagreement

Hank Haney’s Sarcastic Remark Stirs Up Old Feud with Rory McIlroy Over Caddie Criticism

Tiger Woods’ former coach, Hank Haney, recently revisited his past criticisms of Rory McIlroy’s caddie, Harry Diamond, with a touch of sarcasm. The remark comes months after McIlroy’s strong defense of Diamond’s role during the Northern Irishman’s collapse in the final round of the US Open in June.

Haney, 69, had initially critiqued Diamond following McIlroy’s disappointing finish, especially questioning the caddie’s club selection on the 15th hole. McIlroy bogeyed three of his last four holes, eventually allowing Bryson DeChambeau to clinch a one-shot comeback victory. While some golf analysts, including NBC’s Smylie Kaufman, believed Diamond’s advice might have played a part, McIlroy was quick to dismiss these claims, defending his caddie and close friend.

In a recent social media post, Haney appeared to take another shot at the golfer-caddie duo. In response to a video showcasing McIlroy’s evolving swing, he wrote, “On the right track but what do I know.” His comment seemed to subtly reference McIlroy’s previous dismissal of his criticisms regarding Diamond.

The feud originally flared up in July when McIlroy, addressing Haney’s comments, argued that the former coach lacked the credentials to judge his caddie’s performance. “Hank Haney has never been in that position,” McIlroy stated at Royal Troon. He went on to praise Smylie Kaufman, who had made similar observations about Diamond, arguing that Haney’s perspective didn’t hold the same weight.

The Northern Irishman firmly defended Diamond, whom he’s known since childhood and has been his caddie since 2017. “Just because Harry is not as vocal or loud with his words as other caddies, it doesn’t mean that he doesn’t say anything and that he doesn’t do anything,” McIlroy explained, suggesting that criticism of Diamond often overlooked his positive contributions.

Haney, however, believed that a more seasoned caddie might have guided McIlroy differently under such high-pressure circumstances. Despite his initial strong critique, Haney has since softened his stance. In response to a fan on social media in August, he clarified that he does not think McIlroy needs to change caddies, stating it was a momentary lapse that any caddie could have made.

“No, I think his caddie is great for him,” Haney commented on X. “I never said he wasn’t great for Rory, I said they made a mistake on #15 at the US Open. I actually am a big fan of friend caddies; anyone can make a mistake.”

Despite Haney’s recent admission that Diamond’s misjudgment wasn’t personal or unforgivable, his latest post seems to show the lingering tensions. Whether it’s a genuine acknowledgment or a playful jibe, Haney’s comment brings the conversation back to the pressures and choices of McIlroy’s inner circle. The interaction continues to underscore the scrutiny faced by top players and their teams on the world’s biggest golfing stages.