After Rory McIlroy’s painful loss at the U.S. Open, he received a supporting text from Tiger Woods, who reached out a few days later. McIlroy revealed during his British Open pre-tournament press conference that he had actually changed his phone number two days after the U.S. Open, so he didn’t receive Woods’ text until later. This revelation sparked curiosity among the media, who questioned McIlroy about his frequent phone number changes. McIlroy explained that he receives a lot of texts from media members and felt it was time for a new number to create some space.
Regarding Tiger’s text, McIlroy mentioned that Woods had previously sent him encouraging messages after other events, showing their close relationship. McIlroy expressed gratitude for Woods reaching out and offering words of encouragement, especially considering Woods’ iconic status in the world of golf. The support from Woods meant a lot to McIlroy, who appreciated the gesture.
The name of the British Open, also known as the Open Championship, has caused some confusion among fans and media. Former R&A chairman Ian Pattinson explained that the event’s official name is the Open Championship. However, many US golf fans still refer to it as the British Open, which influences the search terms used for news about the tournament. As a result, Golf Digest uses both names in its coverage to cater to a broader audience.
Overall, the relationship between Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods extends beyond just golf, as they have a business partnership in TGL, a virtual-golf league set to launch in 2025. Woods’ text to McIlroy following the U.S. Open loss showcases the camaraderie between the two players, with Woods waiting a few days before reaching out to give McIlroy space to process his emotions before offering support.
McIlroy’s honesty about changing his phone number shed light on the pressures he faces as a top golfer, including media scrutiny and public attention. The decision to change his number was motivated by the influx of messages he received after the U.S. Open, indicating the need for privacy and separation from the constant communication in the golf world. Despite the challenges, McIlroy remains grateful for the support he receives from fellow players like Woods.
As McIlroy prepares to compete in the British Open, the tournament serves as a platform for him to bounce back from his previous setbacks and showcase his skills on an international stage. The support from Woods and other players in the golf community is a source of motivation for McIlroy as he strives to achieve success in the sport. With Woods’ encouragement and the backing of his fans, McIlroy is determined to overcome any obstacles and emerge stronger in his pursuit of excellence.
