Rory McIlroy Criticizes Media After U.S. Open Struggles, Asserts Right to Media Blackout

Rory McIlroy, following his Masters victory, has struggled both on and off the course at the U.S. Open, currently sitting at 10-over par and near the bottom of the leaderboard. His difficulties have been compounded by a controversy over his driver failing a USGA conformance test, which led to leaked information and prompted McIlroy to skip media duties at several major tournaments, including the PGA Championship and multiple rounds at the U.S. Open. When he finally spoke to the media after a third-round 74, McIlroy expressed frustration with the media, stating he feels he has "earned the right to do whatever I want to do" regarding media interactions. Despite missing some press sessions, McIlroy emphasized that his silence is not about his on-course struggles but rather his dissatisfaction with media coverage and the handling of the driver controversy. He also revealed a candid mindset about the tournament, admitting he would have been content to miss the cut and is mainly focused on finishing his rounds quickly and moving on. McIlroy’s strained relationship with the media and his recent performance challenges highlight a turbulent phase in his career since his career Grand Slam completion at the Masters.