Tiger Woods risking his legacy and Rory McIlroy needs ‘herculean effort’ but Colin Montgomerie tipping Scot for Open glory

Tiger Woods risking his legacy and Rory McIlroy needs ‘herculean effort’ but Colin Montgomerie tipping Scot for Open glory

The Scottish Legend and the 152nd Open: Montgomerie’s Take on Woods, McIlroy, and MacIntyre

Colin Montgomerie, a revered figure in the world of golf and a Ryder Cup legend, grew up just a few doors down from the venue of The 152nd Open. His father, James, served as the club captain and later as the club secretary, embedding Montgomerie deeply into the fabric of Royal Troon.

In past Troon Opens, Montgomerie’s popularity was rivaled only by Tiger Woods. Now, in 2024, the two icons are once again at the center of a compelling storyline.

Montgomerie recently stirred the golf world with an interview suggesting that Woods should consider retiring due to the lingering effects of his near-fatal car accident in 2021. When asked about Montgomerie’s comments, Woods, a 15-time major champion, retorted, “As a past champion, I’m exempt until I’m 60. Colin is not.”

Following the media frenzy that ensued, Montgomerie clarified on social media, “If Golf Writers want my thoughts on Tiger please ask me direct, rather than taking a quote from an interview out of context. Wishing Tiger an enjoyable and successful week.”

Determined to get Montgomerie’s unfiltered perspective, talkSPORT.com sat down with him in June for an exclusive interview ahead of The 152nd Open. The conversation spanned various topics, including his thoughts on Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Bob MacIntyre.

Is Tiger Woods Ruining His Legacy?

Despite enduring three challenging years, Woods remains determined to play until he is no longer physically able or believes he can’t win. Reflecting on Woods’ recent struggles, including his missed cut at the US Open, Montgomerie expressed concern for Woods’ legacy.

“He didn’t seem to enjoy himself at all at the US Open. It was hard work, purgatory for him. Playing once a month, playing four times a year in the majors is proving not enough. He’s not competitive now, and he said he wouldn’t play if he wasn’t competitive. I wish he wouldn’t, because I want to remember Tiger Woods the way he was, not the way he is now.

“There’s a time to go, and very few top sportsmen take that opportunity at the right time. I hope he doesn’t continue like this for years, making people forget the true Tiger Woods. He had a golden opportunity to say goodbye at St. Andrews during The Open in 2022, standing on that Swilcan Bridge. It was the perfect moment to leave the majors on a high note.”

Can Rory McIlroy Bounce Back?

Royal Troon also sets the stage for Rory McIlroy’s attempt to end his ten-year major drought. After a heartbreaking finish at the US Open, where he missed two crucial putts in his final three holes and lost to Bryson DeChambeau by one shot, McIlroy faces immense pressure.

“It’d be a Herculean effort if he can win at The Open. He’d certainly get the sympathetic vote from everyone. After the US Open, I felt for him. I know what it feels like to give away a major. They don’t come around often, and it’s incredibly difficult to win.

“People always say Rory will win numerous majors, but it’s not that simple. There’s always someone standing in the way. Let’s hope he can get back on track and perform well.”

Is Bob MacIntyre a Genuine Contender?

For the Scottish crowd, all eyes are on Bob MacIntyre, who recently made history by becoming the first Scot in 25 years to win the Scottish Open. Montgomerie believes MacIntyre has a genuine chance to win The Open.

“The Ryder Cup helped him tremendously. I spoke to him on Tuesday, invited by Luke Donald. MacIntyre’s victory at the Scottish Open has made him a hero, and I think he can carry that momentum into The Open.”

Montgomerie’s insights set the stage for what promises to be an electrifying 152nd Open, where legacies, comebacks, and new heroes will emerge.