Rory McIlroy’s stay in the U.S. Open field nearly lasted just two days.
But a birdie on the 18th hole salvaged his second round (2-over) to get him through two days at 6-under and in a tie for 45th at Oakmont Country Club, barely sneaking past the cutline nine years after he missed the cut the last time the major was held at the course.
McIlroy’s second round turned into a nightmare, too, as on different occasions he chucked his club following a shot on the 12th hole and smashed a tee marker five holes later.
Rory McIlroy picks up his club after throwing it on the 12th hole during the second round of the U.S. Open on June 13. Getty Images
But the 2025 Masters winner recovered enough to at least have a chance during the final 36 holes, though he trails leader Sam Burns by nine shots.
McIlroy, who continued his trend of not addressing reporters following a round, opened his second round with two double bogeys in the first three holes and added another bogey on the 11th.
Rory McIlroy reacts after a putt on the 12th hole during his second round at the U.S. Open on June 13. Getty Images
That meant he needed each of his three birdies — on the ninth, the 13th and the decisive 18th — to move on after missing the cut last weekend at the RBC Canadian Open and finishing 47th at the PGA Championship last month.
McIlroy’s frustration started to surface throughout the round, too, and after his second shot on the 12th hole, he threw his club forward with both hands.
Then, after his first shot on the 17th, McIlroy smashed the tee marker shortly after making contact with the ball and watching its initial path.
It continued a roller coaster stretch for McIlroy, who broke through at the Masters in April to finally complete the career Grand Slam before mostly struggling during his tournaments since.
Rory McIlroy throws his club after a shot on the 12th hole during the second round of the U.S. Open on June 13. Getty Images
“There were points in my career where I didn’t know if I would have this nice garment over my shoulders,’’ McIlroy told reporters after winning the Masters. “I certainly didn’t make it easy. I was nervous. It was one of the toughest days I’ve ever had on the golf course.’’
For McIlroy to win his first U.S. Open since 2011, which also doubled as his first major title at Congressional Country Club, he’ll need to erase a massive deficit on a course that hasn’t produced low scores through 36 holes.