By NOAH TRISTER
OAKMONT, Pa. — Rory McIlroy described his U.S. Open as common to date.
Essentially the most noteworthy factor Saturday was that he was describing it in any respect.
McIlroy held his first post-round media session of the match after capturing a 4-over 74 within the third spherical at Oakmont. He’d skipped speaking to reporters after taking part in Thursday and Friday.
McIlroy was requested Saturday if that was due to frustration on the course.
“Not really,” he stated. “It’s more a frustration with you guys.”
When requested to elaborate on that, he stated: “Maybe not you guys, but maybe more — just the whole thing.”
At occasions, he didn’t want phrases to share his ideas, akin to when he flung a membership on No. 12 on Friday and smashed a tee marker a couple of holes later. Each outbursts got here as he was taking part in the ultimate 10 holes of the second spherical in 2 beneath to make the lower.
“It’s funny. It’s much easier being on the cut line when you don’t really care if you’re here for the weekend or not,” McIlroy stated. “I was sort of thinking, ‘Do I really want two more days here or not?’”
McIlroy stated Saturday his match has been “pretty average” — he stated one constructive is he’s pushed the ball in addition to he has shortly.
He disputed the notion that avoiding the media is new for him.
“At Augusta I skipped you guys on Thursday,” McIlroy stated. “I’ve done it before. I’m just doing it a little more often.”
There are many potentialities for what’s consuming at McIlroy. His efficiency, the driving force flap — or maybe he’s simply weary of the expectations that include being one of many sport’s prime ambassadors. He lengthy has had a repute for accessibility, and he stood firmly with the PGA Tour when LIV Golf launched.
Does he really feel he’s earned a break from all that?
“I feel like I’ve earned the right to do whatever I want to do, yeah.”
And what does he need out of Sunday’s closing 18 holes?
“Hopefully a round in under 4 1/2 hours and get out of here.”
