Rory McIlroy told he made ‘huge mistake’ as PGA Tour star prepares for comeback

Rory McIlroy is set to make his return to the golf course next week at the Scottish Open, marking his first tournament since his controversial performance at the US Open. Despite taking a self-imposed break from the sport, discussions about his final round at Pinehurst No. 2 are still rife.

Last month, McIlroy seemed poised to secure the US Open title, only to falter in the final four holes, ultimately ceding victory to Bryson DeChambeau. A particularly critical moment came at the 15th hole, where a poor tee shot led to a bogey and sparked a debate about his decision-making and the role of his caddie, Harry Diamond.

Chubby Chandler, McIlroy’s former agent, emphasized that when McIlroy is determined on a particular shot, he is unlikely to be swayed, regardless of his close relationship with Diamond. Chandler told Mirror Sport that McIlroy’s resolute nature often overrides external advice, especially when it comes to club selection.

Adding to the debate, former PGA Tour player Smylie Kaufman shared his perspective on the ‘Subpar’ podcast, criticizing Diamond for not being more assertive during the critical moment on the 15th hole. Kaufman argued that Diamond should have intervened and advised against the club McIlroy chose.

McIlroy, holding a two-shot lead at the time, overhit his tee shot on the 15th, which resulted in a double-putt and allowed DeChambeau to seize the lead. Kaufman commented that McIlroy’s decision to use a 7-iron, given the conditions, was a mistake. He believes an 8-iron aimed at the center of the green would have been a better choice.

Reflecting on the situation, Kaufman noted, “I felt like Harry Diamond really should have stepped in on the 15th hole. He did not have the right club in his hands. And I felt like Rory could have taken control of the championship on 15 if he just hits it in the middle of the green. And he hit a good shot. But it just was the wrong club. And never, never was a 7-iron for Rory.”

Kaufman further explained that McIlroy’s shot was technically sound but ill-advised due to the club choice, particularly considering the wind and flag position. He criticized Diamond’s lack of intervention, suggesting that a different club selection could have led to a different outcome for McIlroy.

As McIlroy prepares to compete in the Scottish Open, the conversation about his US Open performance continues to swirl, with many in the golfing world questioning what could have been if different decisions had been made on that pivotal day.