Rory McIlroy’s immediate reaction to US Open agony sums up major misery

1. Rory McIlroy’s immediate response to his disappointment at the US Open encapsulates the struggles associated with major tournaments. On Sunday, McIlroy once again fell short of securing a major title, failing to convert a putt from approximately four yards on the 18th green, thereby allowing Bryson DeChambeau to claim victory at the US Open.

In a moment filled with emotion, McIlroy turned away in frustration after narrowly missing the opportunity to win the prestigious tournament under dramatic circumstances. At 35 years old, he was on the brink of concluding a decade-long wait for his fifth major title at Pinehurst No. 2. Holding a two-shot advantage over DeChambeau with only five holes remaining, McIlroy unfortunately recorded three bogeys in his final four holes, resulting in his missed opportunity.

As DeChambeau prepared to putt from around four feet to secure the championship, McIlroy, having completed his round, could only observe in dismay. Following the successful putt, McIlroy retreated to the locker room alongside his caddie, visibly on the verge of tears after yet another near miss in a major tournament. Since his last major victory at the 2014 US PGA Championship, McIlroy has finished as runner-up or tied for second in four major events.

In the wake of his painful defeat, McIlroy promptly departed from Pinehurst No. 2, opting not to attend the presentation ceremony or engage with the media. In contrast, a jubilant DeChambeau took the opportunity to speak, expressing his sentiments by saying, “First and foremost, I want to wish a happy Father’s Day to all fathers. Sadly, my father passed away a few years ago, and this victory is dedicated to him.”