Paige Spiranac Defends Rory McIlroy’s Media Silence at U.S. Open

Rory McIlroy has recently faced criticism for skipping media appearances at major golf tournaments, including the PGA Championship and the U.S. Open, citing frustration with the media and feeling he has "earned the right" to do so. His silence was partly due to a leaked report about his non-conforming driver, which blindsided him and contributed to his reluctance to engage with reporters. Despite the backlash, golf influencer Paige Spiranac defended McIlroy on social media, emphasizing that he is not obligated to speak with the media and highlighting the intense scrutiny he faces. She suggested that there may be underlying issues affecting McIlroy that the public is unaware of, urging others not to pile on criticism. McIlroy's candid remarks reveal a player coping with pressure and frustration, while his recent performance struggles at Oakmont reflect this mindset. The situation underscores the challenging balance between media obligations and athlete well-being in professional sports.