Rory McIlroy is preparing to compete at the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club with a markedly different outlook than when he last played on Long Island. The Northern Irishman, a four-time major champion, faced a hostile crowd during the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black about nine months ago but appeared to have moved past that experience ahead of the tournament starting Thursday.

During the Ryder Cup, McIlroy endured persistent heckling and profanity from some spectators, leading to tense moments and public confrontations. However, on Tuesday, during practice rounds at Shinnecock Hills, McIlroy received a warm reception from local fans. He was greeted with cheers and requests for autographs, indicating a shift in the atmosphere.

“Look, I love playing around New York. I love playing in this area. It’s got some of the best golf in the world,” McIlroy said. He acknowledged the partisan nature of the Ryder Cup and the difficulties it brought but described the experience as an acceptable trade-off for his career. “If that’s a price to pay to live the life that I’m living, then I’m OK with that,” he remarked.

McIlroy’s improved rapport with the New York crowds contrasts sharply with his frustration at last year’s Ryder Cup, when he told a spectator to “shut the f--k up” during a round and was caught on camera making an obscene gesture at another fan. Now, he described the fans following him at Shinnecock Hills as “great” and the reception as “amazing.” He also praised the spirited atmosphere as typical of New York’s passionate sports culture.

This year’s U.S. Open offers McIlroy a chance to continue a strong major season for European golfers. Having claimed the Masters in both 2025 and this year, he is poised to help Europe achieve a rare feat if he captures the title at Shinnecock Hills: three major wins in one season by European players. So far, Aaron Rai has won the PGA Championship, and Martin Kaymer previously achieved this in 2014 alongside McIlroy’s two major victories.

“The course demands patience and can tempt players into taking on risky shots,” McIlroy said of Shinnecock Hills, where he has struggled in the past. His previous appearance at the venue in 2018 ended with a missed cut amid challenging windy conditions. This time, McIlroy emphasized a cautious approach, aiming to keep the ball centered on the large greens and navigate the forecasted heavy winds.

Seeking his first U.S. Open title since winning at Congressional Country Club in 2011, McIlroy appears focused on turning past difficulties into motivation as he pursues another major championship on one of the sport’s most demanding courses.