How could I NOT post about this first?
The world is now Rory Nation - All Rory, All the Time - Rory, Rory, Hallelujah.
As many of you know, it was Sunday Funday for the young Irishman as he clenched his first major win at the 2011 U.S. Open Championship. I'm sure this is a wonderful feeling for Rory after his memorable disaster at Augusta this past April. Shooting under par for all four days of the tournament (65, 66, 68, 69), McIlroy broke away from the pack early, keeping his lead all throughout the weekend.
Here were the highlights.
Thursday:
Birdies (6): 1st, 4th, 6th, 12th, 17th, & 18th.
>> Just overall great golf. Clean shots, fantastic putting. You can do the math. -6.
Friday:
Eagles (1): 8th hole, impressive chip in shot.
Birdies (5): 4th, 6th, 14th, 16th, 17th.
D. Bogeys (1): 18th.
>> Incredible shot on the 8th chipping in for an Eagle. Despite his double bogey, McIlroy still had a tremendous lead. -11 for the day.
Saturday:
Birdies (4): 5th, 9th, 11th, 14th.
Bogeys (1): 10th.
>> Saturday was concentration day. Mentally stay strong, play smart, & most importantly, prepare for Sunday. -14.
Sunday:
Birdies (3): 1st, 4th, 10th.
Bogeys (2): 12th, 17th.
>> 10th birdie should have been an Eagle -- & I thought that Yang's shot was incredible! -16 to finish at Congressional, 8 ahead of 2nd place Jason Day from Australia - another young talented golfer who should be kept an eye on in tournaments to come.
Rory's win has gone down in Golf History. He set numerous records, & his win moved him up to the 4th world ranking position. With all this commotion, a very popular new topic has emerged.
Is Rory McIlroy the new Tiger Woods?
Popularity wise? Absolutely.
Same # of wins? I definitely think so.
Same character? No way. >> and that is what sets McIlroy and Woods apart, making Rory more likeable, and in my opinion, much more enjoyable to watch.
I was lucky enough to see Rory play at the Memorial Tournament - his last tournament before becoming a major champion. With birdies & bogeys, McIlroy kept focus and maintained great character--very entertaining to follow on the course.
Best of luck to the young curly one!
