Rory McIlroy’s major personal decision involving his wife Erica Stoll could be linked to his recent dip in form and visible frustration.
Rory McIlroy has not been himself since winning the Masters, with the Northern Irishman shirking media appearances and struggling on the course, leading to a difficult U.S. Open week
Commentators on SiriusXM’s U.S. Open coverage suggested that Rory McIlroy’s upcoming relocation from Florida to Wentworth in the UK with his wife Erica Stoll might be contributing to his recent struggles on the course.
On Saturday at Oakmont, McIlroy shot a disappointing four-over-par 74, bringing his total to 10-over for the tournament. It’s been a tough stretch for the reigning Masters champion, who is still adjusting after the emotional high of achieving the career Grand Slam.
Throughout the tournament, McIlroy has shown signs of frustration—throwing a club and damaging a tee box during Friday’s second round, then venting his anger at the media after Saturday’s third round.
As McIlroy completed his four-over round, SiriusXM broadcasters Taylor Zarzour, Brian Katrek, Steve Melnyk, and Brendon de Jonge speculated whether off-course distractions, including his personal life, might be affecting his performance.
“Rory McIlroy finishes at 10-over. Never say never, but it’s going to be difficult from back there,” Zarzour said.
“No, and he’s just not playing well,” Melnyk added. “He doesn’t seem like himself. I know he won the Masters, and that is such a big accomplishment for him, achieving the grand slam and completing it all after all those years.
But it’s clear to see Rory’s not himself. I don’t know if there’s something going on off the course, but he doesn’t seem himself.”
Kaltrek then suggested it might be due to McIlroy’s impending move: “Well, he is moving his family near to Wentworth this week. Moving can take a lot out of you, so maybe it has affected his game.
You’d like to think he’s going to be back and up for the Open at Portrush, a course he knows well.”
McIlroy did not mention his move as a source of frustration when he spoke to the media for the first time in six major championship rounds on Saturday.
Asked if the reason he was not showing up to speak following rounds was his poor form, the 36-year-old said: “No, not really. It’s more a frustration with you guys.”
He then outlined his goals for Sunday. With a sixth major title off the table, McIlroy isn’t looking for a lot: “Hopefully a round in under four and a half hours and get out of here.”
McIlroy seemed more upbeat heading into Sunday’s final round. In an interview with NBC, he shared his enthusiasm about the competition: “There’s a great blend of youth and experience leading the field. Adam being up there is a compelling story, but you’ve also got Sam, JJ, and Viktor in the mix.”
He added, “I’m looking forward to watching how it all unfolds. It should be an exciting day of golf, and hopefully I can post a solid score and enjoy the action along with everyone else.”