Rory McIlroy served Phil Mickelson reminder after U.S. Open decision
Rory McIlroy has come under fire for his recent behavior, and American sportscaster Dan Patrick has warned the Northern Irishman that he risks becoming a hated figure
Renowned sportscaster Dan Patrick has called on Rory McIlroy to take on a more prominent role as a "golf ambassador" by engaging with the media more frequently, warning that his current behavior could lead to a negative public perception similar to that of Phil Mickelson after his move to LIV Golf.
McIlroy's recent performance at the U.S. Open was overshadowed by his decision to skip media duties, expressing his eagerness to leave Oakmont Country Club. When he finally spoke to reporters, McIlroy cited frustration with the media and claimed he had earned the right to do as he pleased.
Following his historic Masters win in April, which made him the sixth player to achieve the Grand Slam, McIlroy has struggled to find his form on the course. Patrick believes McIlroy has a unique opportunity to become the ambassador that Mickelson once was before his departure from the PGA Tour, but his recent behavior is hindering him.
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Patrick shared his thoughts on 'The Dan Patrick Show' on Monday, saying, "All of a sudden, did America turn on Rory McIlroy? Everyone wanted him to win the career Grand Slam, he wins at the Masters, then all of a sudden, it's like, 'Ahhh, Rory.'" He pointed out McIlroy's avoidance of the media, stating, "'I don't want to meet with the media.' He's evading.
"Oh, he's struggling. That happened quickly. It's like, all of a sudden, you pile on Rory. I still think he's such a good interview and he cares so much, I wish that he would meet with the media. I know it's tough to in there and have somebody filet you because you didn't play well.
"But look, you won the career Grand Slam. You're on scholarship. It just feels like there's so much more going on with Rory McIlroy."
Patrick thought McIlroy would be freed from negativity after winning the Masters, but his feelings towards golf and the media haven't changed. "He held on for dear life to win the Masters," Patrick added. "Dear life. It was painful to watch.
"And now, you kind of thought, 'Man, that's lifted. Go out and play.' You could pick up the baton and be the Phil Mickelson that Phil Mickelson should have been before he went to LIV. You can be that golf ambassador. Now it feels like (Bryson) DeChambeau wants to be that."
McIlroy has been a solid ambassador for the PGA Tour and defended it on several occasions due to the threat of LIV Golf, although his comments have led to some criticism. However, Patrick believes that McIlroy should always find time to deliver interviews, even if he doesn't enjoy it.
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Patrick acknowledged the expectations placed on professional athletes, stating: "It goes along with the territory. All of these athletes, I think you owe it to the public to speak to the media. How long you speak or what you say, that's up to you. But I do think that they support you, they're out there, they're fans of you, they want to hear."
He also reflected on the highs and lows of public appearances, commenting, "Good and bad. Everybody wins, they want to bring their kids to the press conference. When you lose, you don't want to be there. I understand that."
