Analyst responds to Rory McIlroy’s ‘I'm owed one’ comment, urges player to up his game - “He never hit the right shot at the right time”

Renowned golf writer Alan Shipnuck recently discussed Rory McIlroy's performance and mindset this season. The Northern Irish golfer had one of his worst outings of the season at the US Open last month, narrowly missing the Major title to Bryson DeChambeau.

Shipnuck appeared on The Rich Eisen Show, where he shared his insights on the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. During the show, he also spoke about McIlroy's performance in Majors.

When asked about McIlroy's "I'm owed one" comment following the US Open, Shipnuck was critical of the World No. 2 golfer's performance. He said (via The Rich Eisen Show's YouTube channel):

"I think about the old course. Two years ago I walked every hole on Sunday with him. And the story was Cam Smith shot 30 on the back nine and stole it. But Rory made so many little mistakes. He made a bogey, but he squandered so many birdie chants. Just so many soft pars on a course that was really defenseless that day. And he just never hit the right shot at the right time, he didn't make any putts that mattered." ( at 12:57)

Shipnuck added that McIlroy needed to elevate his game and expressed anticipation for the golfer's outing at The Open Championship.

"If he wants to salvage his year, if he wants to flip the narrative, this is McIlroy's last shot, as I used to call the PGA Championship when it was the last major. Now it's the Open Championship, he's got one more bite at the Apple we'll see if he can do it. But it's hard to feel confident, I'll say that." (at 15:08)

Rory McIlroy teed off for the final Major of the year at The Open Championship on Thursday, July 18. However, he did not have a good start and struggled in the first round of the Major.

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How has Rory McIlroy played in 2024?

Rory McIlroy has been impressive with his game in 2024; however, he has struggled in Majors. The Northern Irish golfer is looking forward to breaking his winless streak at the Majors, but he has had a rough time at all three Majors this season.

McIlroy tied for 22nd place at the Masters after shooting rounds of 71, 77, 71, and 73. At the PGA Championship, he finished tied for 12th place, and at the US Open, he was very close to victory but settled for second place.

McIlroy has played in 15 events this season and has two wins. He recorded six top-10 finishes and has not missed any cuts this season. He won the Zurich Classic of New Orleans and then went on to win the Wells Fargo Championship.

He last played at the Genesis Scottish Open and tied for fourth place. At this week's The Open Championship, McIlroy shot 78 in the opening round. He has yet to start his second round.