**Rory McIlroy Struggles in Opening Round of U.S. Open at Oakmont**
Rory McIlroy faced a challenging start at the U.S. Open, finishing his opening round at Oakmont with a score of 4-over par. The reigning Masters champion, who had a promising beginning at 2-under par, saw his performance decline significantly on the back nine, ultimately ending the day eight strokes behind leader J.J. Spaun.
Despite the disappointing round, McIlroy continued his trend of avoiding media interactions. Since winning the prestigious green jacket at Augusta in April, he has not addressed reporters, including after his recent performance at the PGA Championship. Instead of engaging with the media or fans, McIlroy chose to head directly to the clubhouse following his round.
While golfers are not required to speak with the press, other major American sports leagues, such as the NFL and NBA, mandate player interviews. McIlroy’s decision to remain silent has raised eyebrows, especially after his earlier comment at Augusta, where he humorously questioned what topics would dominate discussions in the following year.
Looking ahead, McIlroy is set to participate in the Ryder Cup after the conclusion of the U.S. Open. Since his victory at Augusta, he has recorded a tie for 12th at the Zurich Classic and a tie for 7th at the Truist, alongside a less favorable finish at the PGA Championship.
As the tournament progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if McIlroy can turn his performance around and regain his competitive edge.
**FAQ**
*Why has Rory McIlroy not spoken to the media since winning the Masters?*
Rory McIlroy has chosen to avoid media interactions since his Masters victory, opting to focus on his game rather than engage with reporters, which is not a requirement for golfers.