‘Worst Closer’: As Rory McIlroy Starts Anew in Rome After a Disappointing Home Soil Finish, Golf Fans Flock Together to Rub Salt on Fresh Wounds

Rory McIlroy is one of the most watched players in the golfing fraternity. What’s more, he is now the pride and joy of Team Europe in Ryder Cup 2023. The European countries are relying on the 23x PGA Tour winner to help bring them a win in Italy this season.

However, in light of his performance in the Horizon Irish Open, McIlroy may not have an easy outing at the hallowed event later this month. The former world no. 1 had a strong shot at the title in his homeland but unfortunately carded 2-over 74 to finish to share 16th place on the leaderboard.

Rory McIlroy’s abysmal end to the Irish Open

Rory McIlroy had the title in his sights. He started round 4 at the K Club with a solo third and after good rounds in the previous three days. However, in the final round, he hit three water shots and fell behind due to the three bogeys on the 7th, 11th, and 16th. Following which, his win prospects in a national event completely bid adieu, which was quite a disheartening thing for the Northern Irishman.

Nevertheless, the 3-time PGA Tour Player of the Year is nothing if not professional. He may have had to face a dismal end at the Horizon Irish Open but he still has the Ryder Cup to look forward to, and that’s precisely what he did. Captain Luke Donald organized a scouting trip to the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club this week so the contenders on Team Europe can get the lie of the land.

The 34-year-old Irish golfer was spotted taking an extraordinary shot on the golfing greens in style. In a white and red polo t-shirt and beige shorts, the PGA Tour Pro walked up to the ball. Wearing his cap backward, he delivered his speedy swing and watched the ball soar through the skies without a hint of emotional turmoil.

Team US has already been scouting the greens and Captain Zach Johnson explained the reason for picking Brooks Koepka and Justin Thomas for the showdown against Team Europe. He also shared a heartfelt message about Tiger Woods and his absence from Team US in the 2023 Ryder Cup.

Also Read: After Stomping Over Home Favorites Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, $6M Irish Open Champ Vincent Norrman Divulges His Honest Feelings

Team Europe’s bonding experience in Italy is significant as the 2023 Ryder Cup is drawing nearer. McIlroy Fans are excited to witness the prolific golfer in action as he strives to claim the cup for his team.

McIlroy fans share mixed reactions to his enlightened approach

While Rory McIlroy is putting the dismal end to the Irish Open behind him, some golf fans have not been very forgiving. Upon witnessing his carefree play, they wrote, “Show the quad bog he had yesterday.” One fan even wrote, “Worst closer in golf.” While another pointed out, “Looks like he’s ready to accept that [LIV Golf League] is the future. Can’t wait to see [Brooks Koepka] whoop him.”

Despite that, some McIlroy fans came to his rescue, cheering him on for Team Europe with comments like, “Rory’s stress free swing is elite,” and “Go Rory! Go Europe!” Several fans even admired his attire with encouraging compliments of, “see….. backwards hat,” and “Skies out, calves out.” One golf admirer joined in the fun with, “Stunned he’s wearing a hat at all!”

McIlroy may have had a bad day yesterday, but he and his fans are excited to see him play at the 2023 Ryder Cup for Team Europe. What do you think of Rory McIlroy’s finish at the Horizon Irish Open? Who are you rooting for in the 2023 Ryder Cup? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

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