Rory McIlroy Punches Back at Criticism of Caddy After U.S. Open Meltdown

Rory McIlroy’s three-week break from the world of golf is over. In typical Rory fashion before the Genesis Scottish Open, McIlroy was candid about his defeat in the U.S. Open.

While he talked about what went through his mind during the missed putt on 18, he said to place the blame on the guy hitting the ball, not longtime caddy Harry Diamond.

McIlroy said:

“You know, it’s certainly unfair. Hank Haney has never been in that position. Smylie has been in that position once. I love Smylie, and he was out there with us on 18, but just because Harry is not as vocal or loud with his words as other caddies, it doesn’t mean that he doesn’t say anything and that he doesn’t do anything. I just wish that you know, these guys that criticize when things don’t go my way, they never say anything good when things do go my way.”

Rory’s full response on the Harry Diamond criticism: pic.twitter.com/mYkrYMkLsG

— Rory Tracker (@RoryTrackr) July 10, 2024

McIlroy is referring to Hank Haney, Tiger Woods’ former coach, and player/broadcaster Smylie Kaufman. The two criticized Diamond’s stoic demeanor, saying that he should’ve guided McIlroy better down the stretch and settled him down after missing a short putt on 16 prior to the miss on the final hole that opened the door for Bryson DeChambeau to win at Pinehurst last month:

“At the end of the day, they are not there. They are not in the arena. They are not the ones hitting the shots and making the decisions. Someone said to me once, if you would never take advice from these people, you would never take their criticisms, either. Certainly wouldn’t go to Hank Haney for advice. I love Smylie, but I think I know what I’m doing, and so does Harry.”

Rory McIlroy chips in for EAGLE! 🦅#GenesisScottishOpen | #RolexSeries pic.twitter.com/D88iSb04uz

— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) July 11, 2024

McIlroy is tied for eighth after the opening round at The Renaissance Club, where he’s looking to defend his title from a year ago. Next week, he’ll aim for victory at the Open Championship at Royal Troon.

Cover Image via Irish Golf Desk