Rory McIlroy abandons practice session at PGA Championship
Rory McIlroy was forced to abandon his practice session at the PGA Championship on Tuesday after completing just three holes at Aronimink Golf Club in Pennsylvania, reports BritPanorama.
The world number two has been grappling with a painful blister beneath the nail of his right little toe, an issue he first revealed at the Truist Championship the previous week. In a drastic attempt to alleviate the pain, McIlroy resorted to removing his own toenail, stating, “it was bothering me so much” that he felt compelled to take action.
Spotted on the third fairway examining his foot, McIlroy was seen sitting without his shoe and sock before leaving the course via golf buggy. Speaking to reporters shortly after a press conference, he detailed his unconventional remedy, explaining that he had soaked the nail prior to tearing it away, providing a vivid description, “Softened it up in the shower and just ripped it off.”
Initially hopeful that this self-administered treatment would resolve the discomfort, McIlroy described the blister as “a little sore” but “fine” just days prior. However, upon returning to the course, he soon experienced significant irritation, leading to the premature halt of his preparations. Notably, members of McIlroy’s support team later arrived at the player service area carrying multiple boxes of footwear, indicating ongoing efforts to find a more comfortable option for the tournament.
The reigning Masters champion had opted for larger golf shoes to ease the discomfort during his initial practice session. As the competition approaches, he will have one last opportunity for adjustments during Wednesday’s practice before the first round begins.
McIlroy is scheduled to start his opening round on Thursday at 1:40 PM UK time, playing alongside Ryder Cup colleague Jon Rahm and Jordan Spieth. With the countdown to tee time underway, the pressure mounts, reminding fans of the thin line between performance and injury in the high-stakes arena of professional golf.
