Rory McIlroy sports a sharp new cut and sharper focus ahead of Scottish Open
Known for his trademark curls, the Masters champion surprised onlookers with a much shorter, sharply buzzed look, prompting immediate reaction both on the ground and across social media.
But the fresh trim might be more than just a summer switch-up, it may even signal a refreshed mindset. McIlroy has been out of the spotlight since tying for sixth at the Travelers Championship last month, following a welcome return to form after a rocky stretch post-Augusta. Rory McIlroy at the pro-am prior to the Genesis Scottish Open. Pic:He spent the break largely off-grid, recharging at his new family home in Wentworth and intentionally stepping away from 'the grind' of the PGA circuit.
'The one thing I would say about the last couple of weeks is I felt like I could detach a little bit more and sort of hide in a way,' the world number two said at a press conference.
'Sometimes you need that to completely get away. I feel like this world of golf can become all encompassing if you let it. View this post on Instagram
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'Justin Rose and I came up here together yesterday and we were just chatting about how there is a detachment from the sort of week-in, week-out grind when you get back over here, from when you play PGA Tour for that sort of first 25 to 30 weeks of the year.
'It has been lovely to get back and see some familiar faces, and is the first time back playing in the UK since what happened at Augusta, which is a really nice feeling as well.'
Now back in Scotland with sharpened focus and a sharp new look to match—McIlroy has his sights set on making a statement in North Berwick as he builds momentum for his Open Championship bid at Royal Portrush. Rory McIlroy at the pro-am prior to the Genesis Scottish Open. Pic:However, his return isn't what's set tongues wagging, but more so his fresh cut,with fans taking to X to share their divisive opinions on the trim.
'Rory needs to stick to his old hair. Looks 20 years older here with his new cut,' one user wrote.
'The Rory head shave makes total sense when you realize it'll be the ideal 'just enough on top and short on the sides' length when the Ryder Cup rolls around so he can rock without a hat,' another penned.
'Did Rors get in an accident while they were trimming the greens?,' a third joked.
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