Rory McIlroy finishes U.S. Open seven-over, eyes British Open at Portrush

Rory McIlroy concluded the 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont with a strong final round of 3-under 67, finishing seven-over par and tied for 23rd place. Despite recent struggles following his historic Masters win in April, where he completed his career Grand Slam, McIlroy expressed renewed motivation as he looks ahead to the British Open at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, his home country. He emphasized the importance of mental readiness and the significance of playing the Open at Portrush, recalling the emotional experience from 2019 when he missed the cut. McIlroy highlighted improvements in his driving performance during the U.S. Open, which had been a concern earlier in the season after his driver was ruled nonconforming. He plans to participate in the Travelers Championship and the Genesis Scottish Open before the British Open, aiming to find a new “mountain to climb” now that he has achieved the Grand Slam. Overall, McIlroy is focused on regaining his competitive edge and leveraging the support of the home crowd at Portrush to inspire a major victory.