US Open nightmare is exactly what Rory McIlroy needs to end ten-year major wait

Rory McIlroy’s pursuit of a major title has been a gripping saga for golf enthusiasts. The 2014 PGA Championship marked his last major victory, and his recent performance at the U.S. Open has reignited hopes and debates about his ability to break this drought. McIlroy’s near-miss at Pinehurst, where two missed putts in the final three holes handed Bryson DeChambeau his second major title, has led to widespread speculation about McIlroy’s future. Many doubt his capacity to recover and contend for another major title, but history suggests otherwise.

McIlroy’s close friend, Shane Lowry, famously reminded him during the 2021 Ryder Cup: “You’re Rory ‘f****** McIlroy.” This sentiment underscores McIlroy’s illustrious career: four major titles, multiple victories on both the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, three FedEx Cup wins, and a five-time Race to Dubai champion. Despite his recent setbacks, McIlroy remains a formidable force in golf.

McIlroy’s current dry spell in majors is not an anomaly in the careers of great athletes. Most champions, across various sports, have faced significant losses and have acknowledged that accepting defeat is essential for growth. McIlroy, with 40 worldwide victories, has experienced his fair share of heartache, particularly in the manner he lost his grip on the U.S. Open this time. Yet, champions are defined by their resilience, and McIlroy’s actions post-Pinehurst indicate he is already moving on.

While McIlroy’s decision to walk away from press commitments after the U.S. Open was criticized, his subsequent statement showed his sportsmanship and determination to bounce back. Congratulating DeChambeau, he announced a brief hiatus from the game and his intention to return for the Scottish Open, where he will defend his title. This move indicates his focus on regrouping and preparing for the challenges ahead.

Contrary to some perceptions, McIlroy has not “thrown away” a major title in recent years. Since his 2014 PGA Championship win, he has come close on multiple occasions, with four runners-up finishes and 11 top-five finishes in majors. His consistent performance over the last decade is evident, with eight top-ten finishes in his last 11 majors, including three second-place finishes. The recent U.S. Open, where he narrowly missed out on victory, stands out because he was so close to clinching the title.

McIlroy’s past demonstrates his ability to rebound from setbacks. In 2011, a promising young McIlroy experienced a crushing defeat at the Masters, leading the tournament by four shots going into the final round, only to falter spectacularly. However, this disappointment spurred him to a record-breaking victory at the U.S. Open later that year. His performance at Congressional Golf Club was nothing short of extraordinary, leading by six shots at the halfway point and ultimately winning by eight. This triumph was the catalyst for three more major victories over the next three years.

While McIlroy’s career trajectory suggested he might rival the records of legends like Tiger Woods or Jack Nicklaus, the reality of competitive sport is far less predictable. Despite becoming a global icon and a key figure in the PGA Tour’s battle against the rise of LIV Golf, McIlroy’s major wins have not followed as expected.

The recent U.S. Open loss, while painful, could serve as the impetus McIlroy needs. Rather than viewing it as a collapse, it might be the jolt necessary to reignite his drive and remind him of what it takes to secure another major victory. This incident could very well be the turning point that propels McIlroy back into the winner’s circle. With The Open at Royal Troon on the horizon, McIlroy has an opportunity to channel his frustration into a victorious performance, potentially marking the start of another dominant run in his illustrious career.

In the face of doubt and criticism, McIlroy’s past resilience suggests that he can indeed recover and perhaps even emerge stronger, reminding the world why he is, indeed, Rory ‘f****** McIlroy.