Rory McIlroy has experienced another roller-coaster at The Masters this year, and he still has one more round to go.
Even as the defending champion at Augusta National, McIlroy surprised many with his phenomenal start to the tournament.
He carded rounds of 67 and 65 to take a six-shot lead after 36 holes, which represented a record in the entire history of The Masters.
But Cameron Young hit a 65 of his own as McIlroy faltered on Saturday, leaving the pair tied on 11-under ahead of the final round.
And despite a clearly disappointing one-over 73, the Northern Irishman spent time speaking to the media afterwards, which certainly wasn’t the case at several events last year.
Who will claim the Green Jacket on Sunday? 👀
Rory McIlroy’s improved post-round conduct is a much better look
McIlroy experienced utter elation when he claimed the green jacket this time last year, ending years of misery at Augusta.
But in the same season the iconic figure left himself open to major criticism after choosing to avoid his media duties after many disappointing rounds.
McIlroy continuously avoided the media following disappointment after disappointment, often choosing instead to make a quick getaway.
It’s been completely different this week and indeed this season, with the five-time major winner certainly deserving credit for his attitude.
It can’t have been easy to open up after blowing a huge six-shot lead on Saturday, but he delivered another honest verdict of his own shortcomings in Georgia.
Last year’s glory at Augusta has arguably played a key role in such admirable conduct, seemingly freeing him up both on and off the course.
In stark contrast, McIlroy’s Ryder Cup teammate Robert MacIntyre opted against speaking to the media following his missed cut this week.
It’s clearly easy to do given the high stakes at play, but those out on the course must remember their duties as role models for the many millions watching on.
Did Rory McIlroy blow his chance to win The Masters? 😲
Rory McIlroy’s remarkable driving statistics at The Masters
McIlroy has adopted a truly remarkable approach off the tees at this week’s Masters, which may have finally caught up with him.
With an average of 337.00 yards from his first three rounds, the defending champion ranks in first place for driving distance.
But his driving accuracy currently sits at just 50%, which ranks him rock bottom for the players remaining in the event.
| Driving distance | Driving accuracy | |
| Round one | 341.00 | 5 / 14 = 35.71% |
| Round two | 327.00 | 8 / 14 = 57.14% |
| Round three | 343.00 | 8 / 14 = 57.14% |
| Average | 337.00 | 21 / 42 = 50.00% |
He has hit just 21 of 42 fairways, instead relying on the likes of his iron-play and putting to get him over the line.
It’s been a bold approach thus far, which worked wonders early on before his underwhelming showing on Saturday.
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