When golf fans tune in to major tournaments, they expect thrilling performances—and maybe a few candid press moments.
But lately, it’s been Rory McIlroy’s absence from the media spotlight that’s gotten people talking.
And now, social media personality and former pro golfer Paige Spiranac is stepping up to defend him.
McIlroy Chooses Silence Over Spotlight
Rory McIlroy, known for both his swing and his star power, made headlines during the US Open at Oakmont—not just for his game, but for skipping interviews after his rounds on Thursday and Friday.
When he finally addressed the press on Saturday, it wasn’t exactly smooth sailing.
The exchange was tense and brief, with McIlroy openly expressing frustration and stating, “I can do whatever I want,” referring to his media obligations.
His final performance? He tied for 19th place, ending with a 7-over-par, but impressively finished with a three-under-par round on Sunday.
Spiranac Defends McIlroy’s Right to Privacy
While many in the golf community were quick to criticize McIlroy’s behavior, Paige Spiranac took a different stance.
Known for her outspoken presence on social media, Spiranac suggested that not every athlete should be forced into the media circuit—especially when it’s mentally draining.
“Unpopular opinion maybe, but he doesn’t have to talk to the media,” she posted.
“It’s not a rule. And honestly, why would he when people are constantly picking apart everything he does?”
She also pointed out that something deeper could be going on behind the scenes.
“Clearly, there’s more happening that none of us know about,” she added.
“So maybe we shouldn’t all pile on.”
This Isn’t the First Time McIlroy Has Opted Out
McIlroy’s decision to limit media interaction isn’t new.
He also avoided speaking to the press after the first round of The Masters earlier this year—a tournament where he made history by completing the Grand Slam.
He followed a similar pattern at the PGA Championship last month at Quail Hollow, skipping interviews after most of his rounds and finishing in a tie for 47th.
Equipment Leak Left McIlroy Fuming
Adding more fuel to the fire, McIlroy recently vented about an incident involving a failed equipment check at the PGA Championship.
He wasn’t just upset about the test itself—he was furious that the story leaked to the public, especially when fellow golfer Scottie Scheffler had a similar issue that remained under wraps.
“I was a little p***** off,” he admitted.
“Scottie’s driver failed earlier in the week, but mine was the one leaked. That was supposed to be confidential.”
He went on to explain that he avoided speaking out at the time to avoid making comments he might regret, especially since he felt a responsibility to protect the reputations of Scheffler, the equipment manufacturer TaylorMade, the PGA, and the USGA.
Golf’s Pressure Cooker and What Comes Next
All of this underscores a larger issue in professional golf: the pressure on athletes to be transparent, available, and perfect.
McIlroy’s decision to create space between himself and the media might not sit well with everyone, but with mounting stress, equipment controversies, and the constant judgment from fans and reporters, it’s easy to understand why he’s setting boundaries.
With the dust starting to settle, all eyes will now be on McIlroy’s next appearance—on and off the course.
Will he return to the press room with a new approach, or will he continue to keep things on his own terms?
Either way, he’s got support from people like Spiranac, and maybe—just maybe—that’s a reminder that even in golf, athletes deserve grace.