Greetings Golfers,
I love the Open. Not sure I love it as much as the Masters … but maybe. It’s old-school golf – a game of angles … not raw power. If you think you can just bomb it, find it and then wedge it on the green … you’re in for a long day.
Ironically, the best driver in the world had a very long day. He’s also the local lad and the most talented player that I’ve ever seen. I saw Sam Snead play, but he was in his 60s …so I really can’t compare. Oh yeah, I’m talking about Rory McIlroy.
When he was only 16, Rory set the course record at Royal Portrush with a mind-boggling 61. So yesterday – 14 years later on the same golf course – Rory shot an ugly 79 with an 8 on the first hole.
We all know that golf is a cruel game and no one is exempt from its fickleness and disaster holes. However, Rory is in his prime and playing the Open at his home course. How can this happen?
Don’t get me wrong … I really like Rory. He seems like a guy you’d like to play golf with, hang-out with, or have as your neighbor. Fun, friendly, kind, and trustworthy. A great guy.
But, yesterday’s 79 was a nightmare. Obviously, the pressure on him has been unimaginable. But I’ve thought all year that he’s had the wrong attitude for success. In every interview, he’s talking about how each Major is nothing special, just another golf tournament. Well, that’s not true. Trying to pretend things are not what they are is not healthy. Facing things head-on is healthy.
Of course we can make the argument that golf isn’t life or death. I get it. But, Rory does want to win those Majors – especially the Masters and the Open when it is in Northern Ireland – especially at Royal Portrush.
As usual, Brooks Koepka is hanging around the lead. I wish Rory would adopt Brook’s attitude for Majors. Koepka relishes the pressure. And he faces it head-on.
Golf is not a game of la-la-land. Especially played on those Open courses. This is as good as it gets.
Cheers,
Tom Abts
GM/Head PGA Professional
tabts@deerrungolf.com
Deer Run Golf Club
8661 Deer Run Drive
Victoria, MN 55386
(952) 443-2351
www.deerrungolf.com
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