Golf star Rory McIlroy faces criticism for skipping media duties and acting aloof after a poor U.S. Open showing

Rory McIlroy’s glittering 2025 Masters triumph should’ve been a career high—finally completing his elusive grand slam and silencing doubters. Instead, just two months on, the Northern Irishman is battling a barrage of criticism for what many see as petulant, entitled behaviour.

At the US Open at Oakmont, McIlroy looked like a shadow of the golfer who triumphed at Augusta. He scraped through the cut only to finish a distant 19th at seven-over par. But the real story wasn’t his faltering game—it was his sour attitude.

The four-time major winner snubbed media duties after the first two rounds, only breaking his silence after Saturday’s third round with a prickly justification.

“It’s more frustration with you guys,” McIlroy said tersely, before adding, “I feel like I’ve earned the right to do whatever I want to do.”

That remark—drenched in coldness and perceived arrogance—has sparked a fierce backlash. Critics say McIlroy’s petulance is tarnishing his public image, even as he remains one of the game’s biggest names.

“McIlroy has one of the greatest—and easiest—jobs in the world,” wrote The Sun US’s Brian T. Smith. “So why is one of the best golfers of his generation acting like he hates his job so much?”

The backlash is intensified by revelations following the Masters. In the glow of victory, it emerged via SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio that McIlroy’s driver had failed random conformity testing. Forced to bench his trusted club, McIlroy admitted the controversy soured his celebrations.

“Yeah, that was a part of it,” he admitted, closing his eyes as if trying to shut out the noise.

The fallout since Augusta has been ugly. McIlroy has posted a combined 19-over par across his last three events, including a missed cut at the Canadian Open. His ranking—currently world No. 2—is now under threat from younger, sharper competitors.

Meanwhile, JJ Spaun, the unlikely hero of Oakmont, basked in glory and gratitude after lifting the trophy, while McIlroy simmered on the sidelines, caught between resentment and resignation.

For a golfer who has long positioned himself as the game’s spokesman—eloquent, thoughtful, and often outspoken—his recent mood shift has been jarring. Some insiders suggest the pressure to complete the career grand slam may have left a psychological hangover, worsened by the driver scandal.

Others argue McIlroy is simply losing touch. With a net worth of over $250 million, a new mansion in Wentworth, and an adoring media following, the 36-year-old is living a dream most can only imagine. Yet his attitude suggests disconnection rather than gratitude.

“He’s not a Premier League global superstar,” Smith wrote bluntly. “He’s definitely not Mahomes, LeBron, or Ohtani.”

For years, McIlroy has balanced elite performance with thoughtful commentary. He’s challenged LIV Golf, defended the integrity of the PGA Tour, and spoken on broader issues affecting the sport. But the last two months have marked a noticeable shift—from spokesman to sulking star.

With The Open at Royal Portrush looming in July, McIlroy has time to rediscover his form and, perhaps more importantly, repair his relationship with the press and public. But he’ll need more than another major—he’ll need to show humility.

In golf, as in life, it’s not just about winning—it’s about how you handle the moments that follow.