Rory McIlroy has adopted a reserved stance towards the media in recent months, prompting Matthew Southgate to share his perspective in an exclusive interview with the Golfing Gazette.
Southgate has a personal connection with McIlroy, having competed against the Masters champion at the Irish Open in 2016.
Following McIlroy’s impressive win at Augusta National, his career trajectory seemed to shift negatively.
Just before the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow in May, it was reported that his driver was classified as non-conforming.
Subsequently, he engaged in what can be described as a media blackout, avoiding press interactions after six major rounds.
Matthew Southgate Reflects on Rory McIlroy’s Media Conduct
Southgate, a notable admirer of McIlroy, didn’t hesitate when the Golfing Gazette asked who the best player he has ever played with is. He remarked: “The best player I’ve ever played with has to be Rory. He executes shots that others simply cannot. Many top players can perform various shots, but every so often, Rory delivers a remarkable drive or short game shot that stands out. He does it in the moment, while other players might require several attempts.”
Southgate feels it’s understandable that McIlroy is cautious with the media. He elaborated, “Rory faces intense scrutiny. He’s a tremendous asset to the sport and often endures harsh criticism from the golfing media, which can provoke players into controversial stories.” He lamented the shift in sports journalism, noting, “The focus seems to have moved away from performance to sensationalism, which diminishes the achievements of athletes like Rory.”
Matthew Southgate Recalls His Experience with Rory McIlroy at the 2016 Irish Open
At the 2016 Irish Open, Southgate was having a solid tournament, trailing McIlroy by two shots after two rounds. The two were paired in the final group on Saturday, which Southgate described as an extraordinary experience. He said, “Playing with Rory was incredible. I was coming off a tough personal battle with testicular cancer and focused intensely on my game, trying not to think too much about Rory.”
With advice from Paul McGinley, Southgate engaged the crowd and began to feel their support. He shared, “Rory was a true gentleman on the course, aware of the pressure I was under. He made things easier for me.” Ultimately, McIlroy won the tournament, while Southgate finished a commendable fourth.
