Rory McIlroy’s Steady Stride at The Genesis Invitational Despite Early Setbacks
At The Genesis Invitational in Pacific Palisades, California, Rory McIlroy delivered a solid yet unspectacular third-round performance, shooting a 69 to sit at 4-under par. Despite his efforts, McIlroy remained well behind the leaders, his chances of contention hindered by early setbacks at The Riviera Country Club.
McIlroy’s first round was marred by significant errors, including a double bogey and a triple bogey on the 15th and 16th holes, respectively. These mistakes, occurring closer to the greens, marked a shift from his recent issues off the tee, which had plagued him at the Dubai Invitational and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Reflecting on his game, McIlroy acknowledged the challenges at Pebble Beach, describing the event as a peculiar experience that saw him rapidly lose ground. Despite not feeling entirely focused that week, McIlroy expressed satisfaction with the progress he made during his last training session with his coach, Michael Bannon.
At Riviera, McIlroy’s round consisted of five birdies and three bogeys under overcast conditions – a mixed bag for a player of his caliber. Although there was a theoretical chance of overtaking Scottie Scheffler as the No. 1 ranked player, such a scenario seemed unlikely from the outset.
Looking ahead, McIlroy is focusing on a more intensive playing schedule this season. His next appearance will be at the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, a tournament he won in 2012 but hasn’t played since 2018. The event offers the comfort of playing close to home for McIlroy.
Following the Cognizant Classic, his schedule includes the Arnold Palmer Invitational and THE PLAYERS Championship – both of which he has previously won. He also plans to add the Valero Texas Open to his itinerary, a strategic choice as it leads up to the Masters, the final major required for McIlroy to achieve the career Grand Slam.
McIlroy, focusing on building momentum, believes in the power of consistent play. “I feel like I play my best golf whenever I get on runs,” he stated at Riviera. This season, he’s granting himself ample opportunities to find that top form.
