Davies weighs in on Open controversy
Dame Laura Davies believes Rory McIlroy’s frustration with Bryson DeChambeau at The Open stemmed from more than a rules infringement. The four-time major champion said McIlroy has long defended the PGA Tour and simply reached a breaking point with what she described as the circus surrounding DeChambeau. Davies noted that McIlroy was particularly bothered by DeChambeau’s declaration that he would not play, which delayed the draw, and praised McIlroy’s measured wording when he referenced players witnessing the situation unfold in real time in the player lounge.
The speculation that DeChambeau might skip the weekend rounds struck Davies as pathetic. She argued that such behavior places an individual above the game itself, pointing out that golf has thrived without even Tiger Woods. Davies was equally blunt about DeChambeau’s media boycott, recalling that in her prime every round required a post-round press conference regardless of the score. She suggested a firm ultimatum: keep refusing media obligations and the invitation to return should be withdrawn, because engaging with the press is a fundamental part of a professional’s job.
Assessing McIlroy’s week at Royal Troon
Davies described McIlroy’s performance as clumsy, highlighting the contrast between spectacular shot-making and recurring setbacks. She admitted she never fancied his chances on a hard, fast layout that does not suit his game. His ball-striking remained solid, yet too many poor shots and a cold putter undermined his challenge. Davies observed that McIlroy struggles on slower surfaces and failed to hole enough putts. His chipping lacked its usual sharpness despite giving maximum effort throughout the week.
One major victory still constitutes a brilliant season in Davies’ view, even if McIlroy’s own standards demand more. She acknowledged the depth of the current field makes multiple major wins exceptionally difficult, and suggested external expectations of McIlroy may be skewed because he so often makes excellence look routine. A single major trophy, she concluded, should not be a source of disappointment given the quality of competition.