Golf influencer Paige Spiranac has come to Rory McIlroy's defence after the Northern Irishman faced criticism for skipping media sessions during the US Open at Oakmont Country Club.
The decision to avoid reporters following his first two rounds raised eyebrows in the golf world, prompting backlash from various quarters.
Spiranac took to X to give her "unpopular" support of McIlroy's choice: "Might be an unpopular opinion here but he doesn't have to talk to the media if he doesn't want to. It's not required."
She continued her defence by suggesting critics should consider the bigger picture: "And why would he when everyone is always analysing and criticising his every move.
Might be an unpopular opinion here but he doesn’t have to talk to the media if he doesn’t want to. It’s not required. And why would he when everyone is always analyzing and criticizing his every move. There is clearly something more going on none of us are privy to so maybe let’s… https://t.co/fM8teGKlSL
— Paige Spiranac (@PaigeSpiranac) June 15, 2025
"There is clearly something more going on none of us are privy to, so maybe let's not all pile on."
When McIlroy finally spoke to reporters on Saturday, he explained his decision to skip the earlier sessions.
"It's more a frustration with you guys," McIlroy told reporters during a tense five-minute exchange.
The 36-year-old also referenced recent leaks about his equipment issues at the PGA Championship.
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Paige Spiranac claimed there was 'clearly something going on' with Rory McIlroy
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"I was a little p***** off because I knew that Scottie's [Scheffler] driver had failed on Monday, but my name was the one that was leaked. It was supposed to stay confidential."
McIlroy revealed that two members of the media had leaked the information, and explained he was trying to protect multiple parties, including Scheffler, TaylorMade, the USGA, and the PGA of America.
When asked if he felt within his rights to refuse media obligations, McIlroy was direct: "I feel like I've earned the right to do whatever I want to do, yeah," he said on Saturday.
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The five-time major champion also noted this wasn't his first time avoiding reporters, reminding media members he had previously skipped interviews after the first round of the Masters.
McIlroy finished the tournament tied for 19th place at seven-over-par, despite shooting an impressive three-under in the final round.
He entered Sunday's play needing a miracle to catch leaders Sam Burns, Adam Scott and JJ Spaun.
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Despite an impressive final day, Rory McIlroy was unable to catch the leaders of the US Open
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The Northern Irishman's media avoidance has become a pattern in recent months.
The world No2 refused to speak with reporters at all during last month's PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, where he finished tied for 47th.
The frustrations at Quail Hollow came after his historic victory in The Master's this year, beating Justin Rose in the play-off.
His triumph, which was his fifth major championship, made him just the sixth player to complete the career Grand Slam.
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