Rory McIlroy Shifts Focus to Links Golf After US Open Struggles

Rory McIlroy will focus on links golf after struggling at the US Open, finishing tied for 32nd place at 6 over.

What happened?

McIlroy had a rough weekend, shooting 73 on Sunday and Saturday, which kept him from challenging for the lead. He blamed his back nine on Saturday, saying "the wheels came off" after getting to 2 under.

Why it matters for Rory McIlroy

The 37-year-old is skipping the PGA Tour's Travelers Championship to prepare for the Open Championship in July. He plans to play some links golf, which is his favorite time of the year, and will spend time back home.

What comes next?

McIlroy won the Open Championship in 2014 and has been close to a second title there a few times. The style of Shinnecock Hills Golf Club provided some level of preparation for his next major, with McIlroy saying it was "not too dissimilar to an Open Championship". He will look to improve his game on links courses, which could give him an edge at the Open Championship. McIlroy's decision to focus on links golf comes after a disappointing performance at the US Open, where he finished 6 over. He was not alone in his struggles, as other past US Open champions like Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, Jon Rahm, and J.J. Spaun missed the cut. McIlroy's experience at the US Open will likely help him prepare for the Open Championship, where he will face similar challenges. The Open Championship is set to take place in July, and McIlroy will look to use his time playing links golf to get ready. He will aim to improve his ranking and performance, after finishing tied for 32nd place at the US Open. McIlroy's focus on links golf is a strategic move, as he looks to gain an edge over his competitors. He will spend time playing on links courses, which will help him prepare for the Open Championship. The 2014 Open Championship winner will look to add another major title to his collection, and his focus on links golf is a key part of his preparation.