Tiger Woods' former coach, Hank Haney, recently spoke to Golf Digest about the likely most popular figure in golf now that Woods isnt constantly in the spotlight: Rory McIlroy. Haney commented on some of the changes in McIlroys game, noting that his performance this season has been far from satisfactory; at least by his own high standards. While McIlroy has been fantastic compared to other golfers, given his caliber and expectations, things could certainly be looking better for the 35-year-old.
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Haney focused primarily on McIlroys swing changes, which he believes will help him achieve his goals. The Northern Irishman has been analyzing his game and the issues hes faced in recent months and years. Through this analysis, he recognized mistakes in his swing. Haney reacted on social media, specifically X, to McIlroys swing adjustments, stating,
Rory McIlroy on his swing and challenges
Years ago, Rory McIlroy spoke about the swing issues he was experiencing at the time. Despite his dedication to working hard on every aspect of his game, he stressed that it can be difficult to get the nuances and instinctively execute a new technique right away. The 35-year-old emphasized the importance of making the swing feel like a natural part of your game, allowing for spontaneous execution. Rory believes that no matter how much advice you receive about swinging, it takes time for your body to adapt and fully embrace a new approach. He acknowledged that over time, he managed to master the fundamentals and refine his skills. However, as the game of golf evolves, each golfer also changes and adjusts their techniques in pursuit of better results.
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Hank Haney on McIlroy's game and his caddy, Harry Diamond
Haney has previously commented on McIlroy, specifically regarding his caddy, Harry Diamond, during a time when there was a push to blame him for McIlroy's poor performance. Haney noted that Diamond was partially to blame for McIlroy's struggles. However, McIlroy quickly defended his caddy, stating that many people dont understand whats happening on the course and arent the ones hitting the shots and playing the game.
Rory McIlroy expressed his frustration about the tendency of critics to remain silent during his successes while being quick to criticize when things go wrong. He pointed out that he wishes those who criticize him would also acknowledge his achievements. For instance, he highlighted that after his victories at events like Dubai earlier this year, Quail Hollow, and during the two FedEx Cups and two Ryder Cups he won with his caddie Harry, those critics were absent. Instead, they only seem to speak up when he faces challenges.
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Hank Haney on Harry Diamond: I think Rory's caddie is great for him
Tiger Woods' former coach defended himself in August, emphasizing that he believes Diamond is a caddy who does great work and that he has nothing against him. On the other hand, Haney feels they made a mistake regarding the 15th hole at the U.S. Open but understands that everyone makes errors and that the same could have happened to him. In this way, Haney aimed to calm the situation.
Rory, on the other hand, has no intention of looking back on such comments, he is ready to make great results in the coming period.
