Rory McIlroy lambasted for snubbing media again by US podcast

The podcast had some very strong words for McIlroy...

Rory McIlroy endured a very difficult opening first round at the US Open at Oakmont. A promising start with two birdies in his opening three holes soon unravelled for McIlroy, as he later hit four bogeys and a double bogey to finish eight shots off the lead.

The reigning Masters champion's hopes for a second major title win in 2025 have taken a huge hit following such a disappointing opening round. McIlroy chose to yet again avoid the media after his performance.

This is now the fifth consecutive round at a major McIlroy has refused to talk to the media. His silence during the PGA Championship was a huge talking point and one which the 36-year-old has since spoken to the media in an attempt to justify it.

McIlroy has also emphasised in recent weeks that it's not compulsory for golfers to speak. Until it is made as such he believes himself and others are well within their rights to skip the media from time to time. 

McIlroy's latest attempt at snubbing the media has been ruthlessly criticised by major US podcast 'No Laying Up'. Podcast host, Chris Solomon, was particularly brutal in his assessment of the Northern Irishman's previous and latest behaviour to the media.

Speaking on No Laying Up, Solomon said: "You play in one USGA event a year, they're offering up millions of dollars, you've probably made close to $10 million from the USGA from playing this event over the years.

"You can't stand there and answer a couple of questions? Chalk up what happened out there today? You're in such a hurry after a morning? You don't have the daughter excuse, the bedtime excuse with this one."

He added: "What the fuck are we doing man? It's so silly...I don't want to revisit, just fucking answer [the questions]. I don't even know what we're rebelling against at this point."

Solomon also feels McIlroy is ruining his popularity by turning his back on speaking to the media.

He said: "I feel like Rory's losing fans on a weekly basis and it's just shocking really.

"I found myself not rooting for him today which is maybe one of the first times ever I felt like that."