Under the sweltering temperature of 29 degrees, Rory McIlroy’s black Nike hoodie appeared somewhat unusual until he clarified he had just arrived. These days, he doesn’t register his attendance early, a shift characteristic of someone who is no stranger to the scene.
McIlroy’s 16th appearance in the 124th US Open presents another chance to snap a ten-year dry streak. He is acutely conscious of his Major-winning hiatus, its implications on his pursuit of Seve Ballesteros’ five and Nick Faldo’s six victories, and its effects on crafting his unique legacy.
McIlroy has always maintained that his ambition is to be the most decorated European in the game. Surpassing the Major triumphs of both Seve and Faldo is part of that ambition. He takes great pride in what he has accomplished over the past 15 years, his seasonal titles, individual championships or Majors. Despite the long wait for his fifth Major, his confidence remains unshaken. According to McIlroy, he’s as close as he’s ever been to achieving this. He aired these views before proceeding to participate in a practice round with Tom McKibbin.
His aim is to compete in and win as many golf tournaments and Majors as possible. He notes, however, that setting a target number can lead to disappointment or failure. By way of example, he references Tiger Wood’s unsuccessful attempt at eclipsing Jack Nicklaus, insisting that despite this, Woods’ career is far from a failure. Arguably, Woods has played some of the best golf ever seen.
McIlroy affirms that he has no desire to ponder over the opportunities missed in his career. If he had been told at 20 years old about the success he would amass by 35, he would have been incredulous, yet greatly delighted.
“I’m optimistic about the next decade of my career,” said the Northern Irish golfer, confident in his skills for the long run. “No matter what my stats end up being, I’ll be content, considering my humble beginnings and childhood dreams of golfing professionally.”
Paired with Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele for the initial rounds, McIlroy is part of the leading trio favoured by the United States Golf Association (USGA). The only US Open he aced was in 2011 at Congressional, a notably damp course with forgiving greens, contrasting starkly with the impending challenge at Pinehurst No. 2, which guarantees increasingly speedy fairways and hardening greens.
For McIlroy to succeed, he is aware that his strategy and mindset will need to adjust. His short game and putting will be more vital than his power drive. Presently, McIlroy has a consistent record of top-10s in five consecutive US Opens (9-8-7-5-2), marking an upturn since three consecutive misses between 2016-2018. “I had a kind of awakening, leading me to reassess the reasons for my hitherto subpar performance,” reflected McIlroy on his consistent results since 2019.
And what was his pivotal realisation? And what will it entail this round?
“It’s all about adapting to the tough conditions, understanding the golfing style required for a US Open, and maintaining patience. Embracing the game I would previously have dubbed ‘dull.’ No US Open was ever won through mere power. Rather, it demands a meticulous round-by-round strategy, a technique I’m determined to master,” explains McIlroy.
He has grasped the concept. Now, it’s a matter of executing it.