Thin-skinned golfer fires back at on-course commentator
After European Tour commentator Jay Townsend criticized Rory McIlroy’s course management via Twitter calling it ‘shocking” during Thursday’s Irish Open, the 2011 U.S. Open champion shot back within minutes of finishing up his opening round.
“Shut up,” McIlroy responded via Twitter. “You’re a commentator and failed golfer, your opinion means nothing!”
On-course commentator Townsend questioned the decision of McIlroy and his caddie, J.P. Fitzgerald, on the 18th hole, where McIlroy fired from a fairway bunker and into water, on his way to a double bogey as McIlroy dropped from 3-under par and one shot off the lead to 1-under and three back.
McIlroy later commented on Twitter, “I stand by my caddie.”
One has to wonder if McIlroy’s thin skin is a result of all the attention he has received following his spectacular charge to the U.S. Open championship last month at Congressional.
McIlroy, 22, received harsh criticism earlier this month following some rather benign comments about the British Open, where he finished tied for 25th.
“I’m not a fan of golf tournaments that the outcome is predicted so much by the weather,” McIlroy said after the final round at Royal St. George’s. “It’s not my sort of golf.”
In addition to his brilliant game, McIlroy has won many fans with his engaging personality and accessibility. But one has to wonder if we’re starting to see McIlroy become increasingly agitated with the scrutiny that accompanies fame.
