The 124th US Open has set the stage for a thrilling final showdown at Pinehurst No. 2. While many eyes might be on the final pairing of Bryson DeChambeau and Matthieu Pavon, golf aficionados know the real drama lies in the group just ahead, where Rory McIlroy and Patrick Cantlay will tee off at 2:10 PM local time.
Rory McIlroy joins Patrick Cantlay for the final round of the US Open 2024
This pairing is not just about golf; it’s a saga of personal friction and competitive fire. Rory McIlroy, the Northern Irish superstar, has had a notably tense relationship with Cantlay. McIlroy has publicly referred to Cantlay in less-than-flattering terms, calling him a “dick”. This comment alone set the stage for what promises to be an intense round. The tension doesn’t stop there. Cantlay’s caddie, Joe LaCava, and McIlroy had a heated exchange during the Ryder Cup in Rome. The incident escalated on the green and nearly turned physical later at the Marco Simone clubhouse, if not for the intervention of fellow golfer Shane Lowry. This background drama only adds to the intrigue of their pairing.
As they step onto the course, the atmosphere is expected to be frosty. The hot temperatures in North Carolina are also not helping to cool the heated situation down. Cantlay, known by his nickname “Patty Ice,” is reputed for his calm demeanor under pressure, but this final round will test both his and McIlroy’s composure. Fans can expect a highly charged encounter, where every glance and every word exchanged will be scrutinized. The dynamic between McIlroy and Cantlay could very well impact their performance on this challenging course. Both golfers are known for their skill and tenacity, but personal animosity can either fuel exceptional performance or lead to critical mistakes.
As the final round unfolds, all eyes will be on this duo. Will McIlroy channel his frustration into a stellar performance, or will Cantlay’s icy calmness prevail? The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: The drama, the stakes, and the personalities involved ensure that this will be a round talked about for long.