With his final round performance at the US Open, Rory McIlroy is back in the fight to find the right motivation for the future of his professional career.

OAKMONT, Pa. — Twenty-odd years ago, I sat with Ian Woosnam on a golf cart at Kiawah Island, South Carolina. Woosie is the practically-minded son of a Welsh farmer and not given to deep reflection, but on one question he was. He told me he could pinpoint exactly — to the day — when his career decline began.

Even during a frustrating week, Rory McIlroy managed to make more golf history. The five-time major champ was never in contention at the U.S. Open, needing a closing birdie on Friday at Oakmont just to make the cut.

Paige Spiranac is sticking up for Rory McIlroy as the five-time major champion continues to take criticism for not speaking with reporters. McIlroy has developed a reputation over the years for being incredibly open during his media sessions,

Paige Spiranac Sends Strong Message on Rory McIlroy After Backlash originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Rory McIlroy has had a U.S. Open to forget this week at Oakmont, as he made the cut on the number but hasn't been close to being in contention over the weekend. McIlroy's frustrations have been on full display,

The Masters champion has had five birdies and three bogeys and looks poised to card his first under-par round at Oakmont at the sixth attempt (stretching back to the 2016 tournament). He's currently tied for 35th. Each of this quartet leads the field in at least one metric through three rounds.