McIlroy 'stuck in neutral' after disappointing Open
Golfer Rory McIlroy finished a disappointing Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, citing a lack of momentum despite strong driving performance. He plans to take a short break before returning to compete in the FedEx Cup and DP World Tour.
Why it matters
McIlroy remains a central figure in professional golf, and his performance fluctuations are significant for the sport's competitive landscape.
If the Open Championship had been decided by which golfer wielded his driver the best, then Rory McIlroy could have laid claim to his seventh career major on Sunday at Royal Birkdale Golf Club.
The Northern Ireland native led The Open in strokes gained off the tee with 7.98 and in driving distance at 339.3 yards.
Alas, the rest of his game did not live up to his TaylorMade Qi4D.
McIlroy posted a one-over-par 71 in the final round to finish at one-under 279 - nine shots behind champion Ryan Fox of New Zealand.
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