Rory McIlroy’s caddie came under fire following the Northern Irishman’s US Open collapse.
Rory McIlroy responded to the backlash aimed at caddie Harry Diamond after the Northern Irish golfer’s disappointing performance at the US Open in June.
McIlroy, who had not won a major in over a decade, seemed poised to claim victory at the US Open, but faltered on the final stretch, ultimately allowing Bryson DeChambeau to seize the championship title.
After the tournament in North Carolina, McIlroy revealed his intention to temporarily step away from the sport, a break that is scheduled to conclude this week at the Scottish Open.
After his Pinehurst performance, McIlroy’s caddie Diamond faced criticism, leading some to suggest that the four-time major winner should part ways with his childhood friend.
The US Open runner-up dismissed those claims, stating: “Even though Harry may not be as talkative or boisterous as other caddies, it doesn’t mean he’s not actively involved and contributing.”
It is unfortunate that those who criticize when things do not go as planned often remain silent when things do go well.
Hank Haney, the former coach of Tiger Woods, is one of the most vocal critics, stating that Diamond’s approach is too passive and does not provide enough assistance to McIlroy.
He mentioned that he believed Harry Diamond should have intervened at the 15th hole because he didn’t have the correct club with him.
I think that was a massive error. I rarely see Harry getting too involved. Rory usually asks if he needs help, but mostly he just does his own thing and he’s very intuitive.
It seems that those opinions are currently irrelevant, as Diamond is scheduled to caddy for McIlroy at The Renaissance Club this week.
This could be the ideal opportunity for McIlroy to regain his form, especially since the golfer from County Down is returning to Scotland as the current Open champion.
McIlroy clinched victory in the competition last year with a remarkable display, executing a magnificent 200-yard two-iron shot to secure a crucial birdie on the 18th hole.
Describing the shot as ‘one of the finest’ he has ever made, McIlroy’s exceptional performance resulted in him being awarded a special plaque, currently exhibited at The Renaissance Club in North Berwick.
Can you imagine the magic McIlroy could create when he steps back onto the course this weekend?
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