Rory McIlroy found himself in an embarrassing position after prematurely congratulating Tommy Fleetwood on winning the Travelers Championship, only for the Englishman to collapse on the final hole and hand victory to Keegan Bradley.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the final round, McIlroy appeared to believe Fleetwood had secured his first PGA Tour victory.
"Tommy's been a great player for a long time," McIlroy said, before adding: "He's more than due or he was more than due. He's got so much talent and ability, and obviously it's great to see him get over the line."
The comment, apparently made before Fleetwood's devastating three-putt bogey on the 18th, quickly spread online as a textbook example of speaking too soon.
It appears Rory McIlroy thought Tommy Fleetwood had won the Travelers Championship before his 72nd hole collapse, "He's more than due or he was more than due. He's got so much talent and ability and obviously its great to see him get over the line." pic.twitter.com/0xH1HgZBX1
— Chris McKee (@mrmckee) June 23, 2025
Fleetwood had been leading for most of the final round when he reached the 18th fairway with a one-shot advantage. The 34-year-old's approach shot fell well short of the green, setting up a disastrous finish.
He then three-putted for bogey, leaving the door open for Bradley to claim victory. The American seized his opportunity, hitting his approach to within six feet before sinking the winning birdie putt.
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"I'm upset now. I'm gutted. I'm angry," Fleetwood said afterwards. "When it calms down, I'll look at the things I did well... but there are things I have to do better."
The collapse denied Fleetwood his first PGA Tour win at the $20 million signature event.
The two golfers have developed a strong friendship through their time as Ryder Cup teammates, representing Europe together on multiple occasions. Their partnership was particularly evident during Europe's commanding victory in Rome in 2023.
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Tommy Fleetwood fumbled his final putt in a dramatic finish
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The pair demonstrated excellent chemistry during foursomes and fourballs matches and are frequently spotted practising together at major championships.
Their close relationship was on display again this week when both players inadvertently wore matching Nike outfits during Sunday's final round at TPC River Highlands, amusing spectators.
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Despite the awkward timing of McIlroy's comments, Fleetwood would likely appreciate the support from one of golf's most prominent figures, even if the praise came prematurely.
Fleetwood's dignified response to the heartbreak stood in stark contrast to McIlroy's own recent behaviour following disappointment.
The Englishman faced the media despite his crushing loss, admitting: "Right now I'd love to go sulk somewhere. But there's no point making it a negative. Take the positives and move on."
Rory McIlory finished tied sixth at the weekend
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McIlroy, however, had avoided all interviews after his own collapse at the U.S. Open at Pinehurst earlier this month.
Despite the final-hole disaster, Fleetwood's week included remarkable moments. He carded three eagles and 14 birdies over four rounds, including a third-round 63 that propelled him into the lead heading into Sunday's finale.
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