Rory McIlroy endured a difficult week at the PGA Championship, drawing criticism from fellow competitor Justin Thomas over his pre-tournament assessment of Aronimink Golf Club.
The reigning Masters champion had declared that "strategy off the tee is pretty non-existent" at the Philadelphia venue, remarks that also left Justin Rose feeling deflated.
Thomas, who finished tied fourth at five under par, took a markedly different view. The two-time PGA Championship winner praised the course's demanding nature on Instagram.
"I was so impressed with the course - how it managed to test both our discipline and precision all week," Thomas wrote.
Rory McIlroy got a fan ejected during a difficult day at the PGA Championship
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"It begged us to challenge pins and play aggressively, and we found out early we'd be punished if we didn't execute. Which, in my opinion, are just as major championships should be."
The Northern Irishman's week deteriorated further when he became involved in an angry exchange with a spectator during the final round.
At the par-five 16th hole, McIlroy lost his composure after finding a bunker with his third shot.
The six-time major champion directed an expletive at a member of the gallery, telling them to "shut the f*** up" before calling for security to remove the individual.
Television coverage did not capture what the spectator had said to provoke the outburst. However, McIlroy's frustration was plain to see as he confronted the person responsible.
Rory McIlroy has 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
| GETTYThe incident came at a crucial juncture, with McIlroy trailing by three shots. His failure to create a birdie opportunity on the hole further diminished his chances of lifting the Wanamaker Trophy.
Signs of concern had emerged even before McIlroy stepped onto the first tee on Sunday.
Golf analyst Johnson Wagner, speaking on CBS, revealed he had witnessed an unusually lengthy practice session from the world number two.
"I was on the range for an hour before he showed up, right at an hour before his tee time. He hit so many balls," Wagner observed. "I've never seen him have such a long warm up."
The contrast with Xander Schauffele was stark, with the American arriving just 22 minutes before his round began.
Wagner noted that McIlroy appeared preoccupied throughout his preparation.
"Rory seemed concerned. He was looking at TrackMan way more than I've ever seen him do before a round," he said. "Something seemed off from the very beginning with Rory, but he fought hard."
Five things to know about British golfer Aaron Rai | GETTYBritish golfer Aaron Rai emerged as the unexpected champion, finishing at nine under par to claim his first major title. His victory was widely celebrated among his peers on the PGA Tour.
"It is very surreal," Rai said afterwards. "It has been a frustrating season, so being stood here is outside of my wildest imagination."
Despite his turbulent week, McIlroy expressed satisfaction at remaining competitive. "I'm proud that I gave myself a chance," the 37-year-old told BBC Sport NI.
Aaron Rai won his first major title after claiming the PGA Championship | GETTYYet the world number two was left to reflect on missed opportunities. "But there are three holes I'll rue - not birdieing the two par fives and then making bogey at the driveable par-four. Those three holes cost me a chance to win," he admitted.