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Rory McIlroy described his performance at the U.S. Open as “pretty average.”
He noted that finishing tied for 49th with a score of 10-over par at Oakmont isn’t anything special.
Nonetheless, his willingness to speak publicly was surprising as it marked a departure from his recent silence.
The 2011 U.S. Open champion held his first media conference after the third round, where he carded a 4-over 74 on Saturday.
Rory McIlroy takes his shot from the first tee during the third round of the U.S. Open in Oakmont, Pa., June 14, 2025. (Charles LeClaire/Imagn Images)
He opted not to speak with reporters after his rounds on Thursday and Friday. When asked about this on Saturday, McIlroy said it wasn’t strictly due to frustration with his game.
“Not really,” said the reigning Masters champion. “It’s more about my frustration with you all.”
When pressed for clarification, he added, “Maybe not you all specifically, but just in general.”
Winning the green jacket at Augusta National secured McIlroy a career Grand Slam.
Rory McIlroy celebrates by falling to his knees after winning the playoff on the 18th green during the Masters final round at Augusta National. (Kyle Terada/Imagn Images)
However, following his major victory has proven challenging for him. McIlroy has openly discussed the need for motivation.
Before the PGA Championship, it was revealed that his driver was nonconforming, which upset him as it became public. He avoided speaking to the media after any of his four rounds at Quail Hollow, although he did address them before the U.S. Open but not after his rounds of 74 and 72.
At times, his body language spoke louder than words, like when he threw a club on the 12th hole on Friday and destroyed a tee marker shortly after. Both incidents occurred while he was navigating the last 10 holes of his second round to make the cut.
“It’s interesting. Being on the cut line is easier when you don’t really care about being here for the weekend,” McIlroy remarked. “I was sort of pondering, ‘Do I really want to spend two more days here or not?’”
Rory McIlroy walks off the first tee during the first round of the U.S. Open. (Charles LeClaire/Imagn Images)
He also countered the idea that avoiding the media is something new for him.
“I skipped talking to you all at Augusta on Thursday,” McIlroy noted. “I’ve done this before; I’m just doing it more frequently now.”
There’s a lot to consider regarding what might be troubling McIlroy. It could be his performance, the driver controversy, or perhaps he’s just feeling the pressure that comes with being one of the sport’s top figures. He is known for being approachable and has consistently supported the PGA Tour against LIV Golf’s emergence.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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