Rory McIlroy admitted he will be left wondering what might have been after narrowly missing out on the PGA Championship, while also insisting there "won't be a more popular winner" than Aaron Rai.
McIlroy mounted an impressive fightback at Aronimink Golf Club after a disastrous opening round had threatened to derail his hopes of adding a third PGA Championship title to his glittering resume.
The world No 2 began the week with a four-over-par 74 and was languishing well down the leaderboard after the first day, but rounds of 67 and 66 hauled him back into contention heading into Sunday's final round.
A closing 69 ultimately left the Masters champion tied for seventh on four under par, five strokes behind Rai, who produced a sensational 65 to make history.
The Wolverhampton star, 31, became the first Englishman to win the tournament since Jim Barnes triumphed in 1919, finishing three shots clear of Jon Rahm and overnight leader Alex Smalley.
McIlroy was candid when reflecting on the decisive moments that cost him a realistic chance of lifting the Wanamaker Trophy.
"Look, proud," he said.
Rory McIlroy admitted he will be left wondering what might have been after narrowly missing out on the PGA Championship, while also insisting there "won't be a more popular winner" than Aaron Rai
|GETTY
"Proud to give myself a chance today.
"I dug myself out of a hole, which was great on Friday and Saturday, and then conditions were tough today.
"I felt like I played the golf I needed to.
Rory McIlroy has admitted he's 'proud' of his exploits at the PGA Championship despite missing out on glory
|GETTY
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Rory McIlroy finished T7 at this year's PGA Championship as Aaron Rai reigned supreme
|GETTY/GB NEWS
"It's just there were three holes that I'll rue - not birdieing the two par fives, and then making bogey at the drivable par four, 13."
McIlroy acknowledged that even a cleaner scorecard might not have been enough to deny Rai, who surged clear with a brilliant inward nine.
"Those three holes are what cost me a chance to win the tournament today," he added.
"It might not have mattered. Aaron obviously got to nine under there, and it'll be great to see him win.
"There won't be a more popular winner this year, I would say."
Aaron Rai poses with his trophy following his PGA Championship win | GETTYRai began the final round two shots off the lead and briefly appeared to be struggling after reaching the turn in one over par.
But an eagle at the ninth sparked a stunning charge.
He birdied the 11th and 13th before effectively sealing victory with a remarkable 68-foot birdie putt on the 17th green.
The Englishman, known for wearing two gloves and still using iron covers, later paid tribute to his wife Gaurika Bishnoi and joked that his celebrations would likely involve a visit to Chipotle.