Although Rory McIlroy was determined to win the RBC Canadian Open for the third time in his career, he ultimately came up three shots short of winner Robert MacIntyre.
Following his victory in the RBC Canadian Open on Sunday, which saw the Scot finish three shots ahead of McIlroy, Rory McIlroy had some kind words to say about his Ryder Cup teammate.
It was MacIntyre’s first-ever victory on the PGA Tour; he won by just one shot over Ben Griffin, the runner-up. McIlroy was two shots back, and his tremendous six-under-par 64 in the last round was too little, too late for the two-time winner.
McIlroy began the final round seven shots behind MacIntyre, meaning he had plenty of work ahead of him. But after a strong start on day four, he entered the conversation right away.
After the 54-hole leader, MacIntyre, bogeyed his opening hole, the four-time major champion made four birdies in six holes to get into contention. Though he would only add two more birdies over the next twelve holes to trail his Ryder Cup teammate, McIlroy’s birdie train soon slowed down.
In the meantime, MacIntyre remained composed and shot a two-under 68 to guarantee that his wait for a PGA Tour victory was finally over. Following his 2023 Race to Dubai finish, which earned him full playing status on the PGA Tour, the Oban-born star recently moved to the United States.
MacIntyre, who had trouble finding his best form before the trip to Canada, has had to get used to life in the United States. The Scot revealed his recent struggles just a month ago, acknowledging that he was missing his friends and family back in Europe and that he felt “lonely” on the PGA Tour.
This week, however, he saw a familiar face: Dougie, his father, filled in for Caddie, and the father-son team won an emotional battle. Despite his disappointment, tied-fourth place finisher McIlroy was all praise for his European opponent. “We live on different sides of the Irish Sea, Bob and I, but we’re not that far from each other where we grew up in Oban and Belfast,” McIlroy remarked.
“I completely comprehend. It’s a major cultural shock from Oban, where he was raised. You know, exploring America is like exploring a whole new world. A few individuals adjust more quickly than others. Everyone must make an effort to discover their own rhythm.”
In an interview prior to MacIntyre’s moment of glory, McIlroy said, “It seems like Bob is still working that out. It would be fantastic to watch him persevere and win on the PGA Tour.” With his father in the winner’s seat, the Scot’s victory was even more meaningful.
After winning, MacIntyre remarked, “Goose bumps.” It’s amazing. I’ve always wanted to be a professional golfer. I’ve always wanted to win on the PGA Tour, so when I got my card, I couldn’t believe I did it alongside my father. I got my golf game from this guy.”
