McIlroy plays the spectator and likes what he sees in L.A.

Four-time Major winner refuses to let severe on-course delays at US Open distract as he moves firmly into contention at halfway mark

GETTING A GOOD LOOK: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland plays a second shot on the 13th hole during the second round of the 123rd US Open Championship at Los Angeles Country Club on June 16, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. Pic: Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images

Rory McIlroy stood on the seventh tee for more than 30 minutes waiting for a ruling in the group ahead to clear the way. Coming off two consecutive birdies, it had the potential to be a rally killer.

Instead, McIlroy never flinched or faltered. He maintained his momentum, hitting brilliant irons into 8 and 9 for two kick-in closing birdies to reach 8-under par and put himself squarely among the favorite contenders heading into the U.S. Open weekend at Los Angeles Country Club.