Rory McIlroy to take break after 'toughest' day in pro golf

"Yesterday was a tough day, probably the toughest I've had in my nearly 17 years as a professional golfer."

Rory McIlroy reacts after missing a putt on the 15th hole during the final round of the US Open. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Mon, 17 Jun, 2024 - 22:06

PJ Browne

Rory McIlroy will take a break from golf following his agonising collapse in the closing holes of the US Open at Pinehurst.

The world number two had been listed in the initial field for this week's Traveler's Championship. However, he will skip that tournament and return to action at the Scottish Open from July 11 - 14 before playing The Open at Royal Troon.

"Yesterday was a tough day, probably the toughest I've had in my nearly 17 years as a professional golfer," McIlroy said in a statement posted to social media.

"Firstly, I'd like to congratulate Bryson. He is a worthy champion and exactly what professional golf needs right now. I think we can all agree on that.

"As I reflect on my week, I'll rue a few things over the course of the tournament, mostly the two missed putts on 16 and 18 on the final day. But, as I always try to do, I'll look at the positives of the week that far outweigh the negatives.

"As I said at the start of the tournament, I feel closer to winning my next major championship than I ever have. The one word that I would describe my career as is resilient. I've shown my resilience over and over again in the last 17 years and I will again.

"I'm going to take a few weeks away from the game to process everything and build myself back up for my defense of the Genesis Scottish Open and The Open at Royal Troon.

"See you in Scotland."