‘how could you
not root for hiM?’
sunday afternoon at congressional cc wasn’t so
much a competition as a coronation, with rory mcilroy becoming golf’s newest royalty. the ulsterman’s
impressive play, of course, had something to do with it,
but credit also belongs to the thousands of spectators
watching the festivities who collectively made it their
mission to help mcilroy reach the 18th green triumphant. “i thought i should wear it to support rory,” said
Jeff cartwright of the two-foot tall, green-shamrock-shaped hat he wore as he walked the front nine with mcilroy. “and i’m not even irish.” at every hole fans broke
out chants of “rory, rory,” as if they were attending a
professional football game rather than a professional
golf tournament. “with what he went through at the
masters and how he handled himself,” said tate run-dell, “how could you not root for him?” the sentiment
was held not just by spectators, but by mcilroy’s fellow
competitors as well. “he’s a great guy. that’s why you’re
happy to see this happen,” said graeme mcdowell, who
stood beside the 18th to watch his countryman close
things out, clapping along with the rest as the applause
washed over the new champion. no doubt it was a
happy ending for mcilroy. but it was the same for those
who cheered him on. —Ryan Herrington
02
ap photo/nick wass
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