Rory McIlroy was gunning to win the RBC Canadian Open for the third time in his career, but the Northern Irishman finished three shots behind champion, Robert MacIntyre.
Rory McIlroy expressed his admiration for his Ryder Cup comrade Robert MacIntyre, following MacIntyre’s triumph in the RBC Canadian Open on Sunday, where he finished three shots ahead of McIlroy.
MacIntyre secured his inaugural victory on the PGA Tour, ultimately claiming the championship by a solitary shot over runner-up Ben Griffin. McIlroy, on the other hand, trailed behind by two shots, despite his remarkable six-under-par 64 in the final round. Unfortunately, it was insufficient to secure a third championship for the talented golfer.
McIlroy faced a significant challenge as he entered the final round, trailing MacIntyre by seven shots. However, he quickly made his presence known with an impressive start on the fourth day.
The renowned golfer managed to secure four birdies in just six holes, positioning himself as a strong contender. This surge in performance came after MacIntyre, the leader after 54 holes, made a bogey on his opening hole. Unfortunately, McIlroy’s momentum began to wane as he progressed through the next 12 holes, only managing to add two more birdies to his score. Ultimately, he fell short of surpassing his Ryder Cup teammate.
MacIntyre kept his composure and shot a solid two-under 68 to secure his first win on the PGA Tour. The Oban-born golfer recently moved to the United States after earning full playing status on the PGA Tour with his impressive 2023 Race to Dubai performance.
Life in America has been an adjustment for MacIntyre, who had a tough time finding his rhythm before his trip to Canada. He opened up about feeling isolated on the PGA Tour, missing his loved ones back in Europe.
He had the company of a familiar face this week, as his father, Dougie, stepped in as his caddie. This father-son duo achieved a heartfelt victory, leaving a lasting impact. Despite finishing tied-fourth, McIlroy displayed grace and showered his fellow European with praise. “Although Bob and I are separated by the Irish Sea, we are not as distant as one might think. We both hail from Oban and Belfast, and our roots connect us,” McIlroy expressed.
“I can completely empathize with him. Transitioning from Oban to America is a significant cultural shift. Traveling across the United States exposes you to a whole new world. Some individuals adapt more swiftly than others. It’s essential for everyone to find their own rhythm.”
Before MacIntyre’s big moment, McIlroy shared, “Bob seems to still be working things out. It would be amazing to witness him persevere and achieve his first PGA Tour victory.” This win held a significant meaning for the Scot, as his dad was there supporting him every step of the way.
MacIntyre expressed his excitement about his victory by saying, “I experienced goose bumps. It is truly incredible. Playing golf professionally has always been a dream of mine. Winning on the PGA Tour has also been a long-standing aspiration since I obtained my PGA Tour card. I am still in disbelief that I achieved this milestone with my dad as my caddie. He has been instrumental in shaping my golfing style.”
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