Rory McIlroy is one of the best golfers the world has ever seen but Tommy Fleetwood has explained why it’s actually a bit of a problem for his good friend.
McIlroy had another fine year in golf in 2024 as he won on the PGA Tour twice, came second in the US Open and won yet another Race to Dubai title on the DP World Tour.
However, for some, it’s still not enough, with McIlroy seemingly missing out on golden chances to win more.
The US Open win sticks out but McIlroy also stumbled in the Irish Open when he was on to win, while he couldn’t quite get into the medals in the Olympics either.
But according to Tommy Fleetwood, it is the fact that Rory McIlroy is so good that means his achievements are often looked down upon.
Tommy Fleetwood shares why Rory McIlroy is different to everyone else on the PGA Tour
McIlroy was the feature of a new documentary on Sky named ‘Expectations’ this weekend and in there, Fleetwood commented on McIlroy’s influence and brilliance in golf.
“I think it’s easy for everyone to look at what could have happened if things go a slightly different way so close to winning a major. Of course, Rory is held to a higher standard than pretty much everyone else in the world of golf,” Fleetwood said.
Adding credence to Fleetwood’s comments, McIlroy himself admitted that the media pressure when he loses is indeed there.
“The hard thing is in my position that your disappointments and mistakes keep getting brought up to you every time you get in front of a camera or are in a press conference answering questions,” McIlroy said.
Rory McIlroy can improve and win plenty more
Rory McIlroy’s bad year would be a success for 99% of the players on the PGA Tour and going into 2025, he’ll want to ensure there’s no room for criticism.
Eddie Pepperell has backed McIlroy to win a major in 2025 although Paul McGinley claims McIlroy has to get better at pulling away when ahead in tournaments to be a consistent winner.
With McIlroy adapting a new swing at the DP World Tour Championship and his game looking in good shape, it looks like he’s ready to challenge again.
If not, it will be another year of answering questions and looking back at what might have been.
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