Rory McIlroy Opens Up About His Mindset at the 2026 U.S. Open

Rory McIlroy is known for his natural talent from a very young age, which has kept him in the spotlight for a very long time. While he did face some struggles over the past few years, McIlroy has rejuvenated his career with a stronger mindset. He now reveals what changes he went through to achieve it.

After opening the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club with a 1-under-par 69, McIlroy reflected on the mindset shift that has helped him become one of the most consistent players. He currently sits tied for ninth place, while Wyndham Clark leads the major after shooting 6-under-par.

Following the first round, McIlroy discussed more about his new attitude on the course. He said, "I think the big thing was I needed to change my mindset. I've told this story before, but I played those two days in 2018, and then I got to the Travelers the next week." The PGA Tour star was referring to the 2018 U.S. Open, the last time the major took place at Shinnecock Hills.

McIlroy missed the cut during that edition after scoring 10-over-par. The following week, he traveled to TPC River Highlands for the Travelers Championship, where he felt far more comfortable with an -11 scorecard. "I remember like feeling so much in my comfort zone going to TPC River Highlands and thinking to myself, I've got this backwards. I should be in my comfort zone at Shinnecock and not here," he said.

As he returns to the same course eight years later, McIlroy feels he values more of his shots and certain skills within the game that he didn't back then. "From 2019 going forward, I'm going to build my game to compete at the major championships and excel at the toughest tests that we have," McIlroy revealed the goal he had written down in his journal in 2018.

The six-time major winner ended by saying how he needs to excel in his overall game on the course, which also includes wedge play, short game, and putting. "All the stuff that I feel like I've improved over the last few years," said McIlroy. That approach has delivered results.

The Northern Irish star won his sixth major earlier this year at the Masters while also retaining his Green Jacket. He has made the cut in every one of the eight events he has contested this season. Rory last missed the cut at the 2025 RBC Canadian Open. Now, as he continues to maintain his hot form, McIlroy aims for his first U.S. Open win since 2011.

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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 7:34 AM.