Padraig Harrington reflects on 2011 US Open loss to Rory McIlroy

Padraig Harrington reflected on the 2011 US Open during a recent podcast, recalling how Rory McIlroy's unprecedented performance left him feeling overshadowed. Despite Harrington's confidence as a three-time major champion, McIlroy dominated the tournament, finishing at an impressive 16-under-par and setting a record 72-hole score of 268. Harrington, who had been tipped for victory by Adam Scott, acknowledged that he felt 'broken' after witnessing McIlroy's skill, stating, 'Rory broke me in 2011.' The event marked a turning point for Harrington, who recognized that he needed to improve his game to compete at the highest levels. He compared this experience to his earlier days competing against Tiger Woods, emphasizing that he previously focused solely on his own performance rather than comparing himself to others. This shift in perspective has since influenced Harrington's approach to the game.