Rory McIlroy shown up by PGA Tour rival after eye-catching reaction to defeat
Two weeks after Rory McIlroy’s heartbreaking collapse at the US Open, where he let a golden opportunity slip away, he was outclassed by Akshay Bhatia in a dramatic display of sportsmanship at the Rocket Mortgage Classic. McIlroy’s reaction to his defeat has drawn widespread criticism and highlighted the contrasting grace shown by Bhatia under similar circumstances.
McIlroy held a two-stroke lead with just five holes remaining at the US Open but faltered with three bogies, allowing Bryson DeChambeau to clinch the title. The 35-year-old missed two crucial par putts within four feet, turning his triumph into despair. As DeChambeau celebrated his victory, McIlroy’s visible devastation led to an abrupt exit from the clubhouse without congratulating his rival.
The aftermath was harsh for McIlroy, as his refusal to acknowledge DeChambeau’s win and his avoidance of media duties were widely condemned. In stark contrast, Bhatia’s handling of his own narrow defeat at the Rocket Mortgage Classic stood out. Bhatia missed a birdie putt on the final hole, followed by a par attempt, giving Cam Davis his second victory in four years. Despite the crushing disappointment, Bhatia spoke to the media with grace and poise.
Reflecting on his missed opportunity, Bhatia explained, “That green’s old school, so a lot of slope, downhill left to right. It’s a tricky putt just to get the speed correct and I did such a good job all day of my speed being really good until that last hole.”
Meanwhile, McIlroy announced a break from golf, still reeling from his US Open heartbreak. He eventually offered belated congratulations to DeChambeau, stating on X (formerly Twitter), “Yesterday was a tough day, probably the toughest I’ve had in my nearly 17 years as a professional golfer. Firstly, I’d like to congratulate Bryson. He is a worthy champion and exactly what professional golf needs right now.”
McIlroy expressed his determination to bounce back, saying, “As I reflect on my week, I’ll rue a few things over the course of the tournament, mostly the two missed putts on 16 and 18 on the final day. But, as I always try to do, I’ll look at the positives of the week that far outweigh the negatives.”
With his sights set on future challenges, McIlroy declared, “I feel closer to winning my next major championship than I ever have. The one word that I would describe my career as is resilient. I’ve shown my resilience over and over again in the last 17 years and I will again.”
Taking some time away to regroup, McIlroy aims to return stronger for his defense of the Genesis Scottish Open and The Open at Royal Troon.
