Rory McIlroy press conference short, awkward and focused on golf as he aims to end major drought

For the moment, the golf course is McIlroy’s sanctuary from his personal life and any prying questions.

Rory McIlroy speaks during a news conference at the PGA Championship at the Valhalla Golf Club. Picture: AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

It was short and awkward and focused on golf. Rory McIlroy did not come to Valhalla to talk about his home life. He came to play the PGA Championship and try to end a 10-year major drought.

In a press conference that respected McIlroy’s request for privacy after the disclosure of his divorce petition filed on Monday in Florida, only one simple question invited McIlroy to open up if he wanted.