Rory McIlroy criticises US Open practice pace as Thorbjorn Olesen withdraws

Rory McIlroy has criticised the slow pace of US Open practice rounds at Shinnecock Hills, while former Ryder Cup winner Thorbjorn Olesen has withdrawn from tournament qualifying in Toronto.

The Northern Irishman is focused on securing his seventh major title when the championship begins on Thursday, 18 June.

Having recently retained the Green Jacket at the Masters, the 37-year-old arrives in confident form after completing the career Grand Slam.

He returned to competitive action at last week’s Memorial Tournament, finishing tied for 12th on four under par.

Practice round frustrations

Despite his strong recent performances, the recent Augusta champion has aired frustrations regarding the tournament build-up.

He experienced similar issues during the PGA Championship last month and predicts preparations will be hindered again at Shinnecock Hills.

“Too many people inside the ropes I think is the big part of it,” McIlroy said.

“I think as well, like, guys are resigned to the fact that they’re going to play nine holes, so it’s okay to be out there for nine holes and in three hours.”

The tournament favourite believes players exploit the lack of full 18-hole practice rounds to play deliberately slowly.

“I guess it gives everyone the ability to play slow and hit as many balls as they like,” he added.

“I think as well there’s, like, just so much hangers on inside the ropes and that sort of seems to slow things down as well.”

Olesen abandons qualifying bid

Meanwhile, Thorbjorn Olesen’s hopes of reaching the upcoming major have ended after abandoning a Canadian qualifying event.

The 2018 Ryder Cup winner was three over par after 14 holes at Lambton Golf and Country Club on Monday.

Finding himself eight strokes off the lead, the 36-year-old opted to walk off before completing his two scheduled rounds.

The Dane will now shift his focus to this week’s Canadian Open, which is also being held in Toronto.