Rory McIlroy has voiced a major complaint ahead of the US Open, citing slow practice rounds at Shinnecock Hills as a key concern. The Northern Irishman is aiming to secure his seventh major title at the tournament, which begins on Thursday, June 18.
McIlroy's Preparation and Grievance
The 37-year-old completed the career Grand Slam by winning the Masters last year and successfully defended the Green Jacket in April. Since then, he has played in only three tournaments, most recently the Memorial Tournament, where he finished tied for 12th at four-under-par. McIlroy practiced at Shinnecock Hills before the Memorial and is now spending time at home in England before returning to the United States. However, he has expressed frustration over the pace of practice rounds, a problem he also encountered during the PGA Championship last month.
“Too many people inside the ropes is a big part of it,” McIlroy said. “Guys are resigned to playing nine holes, so it’s okay to be out there for three hours. No one plays 18-hole practice rounds anymore. It gives everyone the ability to play slow and hit as many balls as they like. There are too many hangers-on inside the ropes, which slows things down.”
Thorbjorn Olesen Withdraws from Qualifying
Meanwhile, Thorbjorn Olesen will not compete in the US Open after withdrawing from a qualifying tournament in Toronto. The 36-year-old Dane, a member of Team Europe’s victorious 2018 Ryder Cup team, was three-over after 14 holes at Lambton Golf and Country Club before pulling out. He was eight shots off the pace and hopes to perform better at this week’s Canadian Open, also held in Toronto.
Olesen has won 15 professional titles, including eight on the European Tour. His career highlight came in the 2018 Ryder Cup, where he defeated Jordan Spieth in singles to help Europe win. Last year, he missed the cut at the US Open after carding eight-over at Oakmont. A total of 43 US Open spots were awarded across 10 qualifying events in the US and Canada.
