Golf superstar Rory McIlroy has opened up about the support he received from sporting legends Michael Jordan and Rafael Nadal following his US Open disappointment.
The Northern Irishman, who narrowly missed out on clinching a Major title due to two par putts slipping away in the final three holes, was consoled by none other than basketball icon Jordan and tennis maestro Nadal after his 2014 Major drought continued.
Speaking to the Guardian, McIlroy shared, "Rafa Nadal and Michael Jordan," when asked about any notable figures reaching out. He added: "MJ was maybe the first person to text me after I missed the putt on the 18th but both of them got in touch very, very quickly."
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The words of encouragement from such high-calibre athletes were simple yet impactful: "They just told me to keep going. MJ reminded me of how many game-winning shots he missed. Really nice."
With The Open at Royal Troon on the horizon, McIlroy is determined not to let past setbacks weigh him down, asserting: "Was it a great opportunity to win a major? Absolutely," and emphasizing his quick recovery: "I'd say people would be surprised to see how quickly I got over it and moved on. I trust the people around me. I don't need to go looking for external counsel."
His confidence remains unshaken as he prepares for the next challenge, "If the tournament ended after 68 holes, people would be calling me the best golfer in the world."
McIlroy took a month off from golf after his disappointment at Pinehurst, which has allowed him to reflect on his career and hold his head up high.
"I need to take a step back and appreciate what I've done in my career and in my life and enjoy my success," he said. "I don't really enjoy my success and I haven't I would say for the last five."
"I haven't been on a vacation in probably four or five years. So I think just stepping back and enjoying myself a little bit more away from my game is the thing. Have some fun.
"I live on a golf course and it's so easy to just go out there at 7pm and hit a few balls. So I think being able to just get away from it and give yourself that free headspace of not thinking about golf is a good thing."
