How did McIlroy manage pressure on the 18th hole at Pebble Beach?

Question

Accepted Answer

McIlroy said he felt little pressure while walking up the 18th at Pebble Beach after taking a three-shot lead
McIlroy came down the 18th hole at Pebble Beach with a three-shot lead, and he said that made it possible to enjoy the final hole “somewhat” because he did not feel too much pressure. He described it as special to stand on the 18th tee box, look at one of the most beautiful holes in golf, and then enjoy the stroll up 18 without feeling pressured.
He entered 18 with a three-shot lead that eased the final-hole pressure
McIlroy said that coming down the last hole with a three-shot lead helped him feel comfortable enough to enjoy the moment. With that cushion, he did not feel like there was too much pressure as he approached the 18th tee and the walk up the hole.
He focused on the experience of the 18th tee box and the walk up
He highlighted the time he had to stand on the 18th tee box and simply look at the hole. He also said enjoying the “stroll up 18” was part of what made the moment feel special, rather than feeling rushed by the pressure of the leaderboard.
He used the situation to balance competition and enjoyment while watching Lowry
While moving up 18, he said he was rooting for Shane Lowry to make a 4 so Lowry would finish second on his own. He framed that as something he was able to have alongside enjoying the final hole, rather than it being overshadowed by pressure.
He said sharing the win with his caddie helped the moment feel lighter
McIlroy also said it was nice to share the win with his caddie, Harry Diamond, even though he was the one who lifted the trophy. He connected that shared moment with the ability to enjoy the final stretch, including the 18th hole experience.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

How did McIlroy manage pressure on the 18th hole at Pebble Beach?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends