Rory McIlroy concluded his challenging week at the U.S. Open with a final round at Shinnecock Hills that left him well out of contention. Finishing six over par, McIlroy closed his day approximately two hours before the tournament leaders, marking a disappointing end to a week marked by inconsistency.

Entering the weekend at even par, McIlroy needed stronger rounds to remain competitive but instead carded two rounds of 73. Throughout the tournament, his play was characterized by sporadic stretches of good scoring that were undone by multiple bogeys. The defining moment came on Saturday, when after reaching two under par for the tournament through nine holes, he faltered significantly on the back nine, a collapse he acknowledged as pivotal in his performance.

“I think it won it the battle over me at this point,” McIlroy reflected on the Shinnecock course, noting particular frustration with his back nine on Saturday. Despite efforts to regain momentum during Sunday’s round, early bogeys on the front nine hindered his ability to mount a comeback, leading him to focus on finishing the round.

Looking ahead, McIlroy indicated his focus will shift to links golf as he prepares for the British Open. He described Shinnecock’s conditions over the weekend as somewhat similar to those typically encountered at the Open Championship, suggesting that experience may prove useful in his upcoming preparation. “I’ll be playing some links golf this week probably coming up,” he said. “It’s my favorite time of the year to go back home and play, play the Open, and I get to spend a bit of time back there.”

McIlroy’s results at Shinnecock Hills underscore the challenges posed by the course, which once again proved a stern test for even the sport’s top players. As the season moves toward its next major, McIlroy will seek to return to form on the links, aiming for a stronger showing at the British Open.