Home / Sports / McIlroy Fights Back: Survives Australian Open Scare
McIlroy Fights Back: Survives Australian Open Scare
5 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Rory McIlroy narrowly avoided a missed cut at the Australian Open.
- He made an airswing on the 14th, leading to a critical bogey.
- McIlroy expressed relief, calling an early exit a 'big downer.'
Rory McIlroy, the favorite for the Crown Australian Open 2025, experienced a challenging start to the tournament at Royal Melbourne GC. After an opening round of 72, McIlroy found himself precariously close to missing the cut following a difficult second round.
A significant moment of concern occurred on the par-5 14th hole, where an unexpected airswing in the trees resulted in a bogey. This setback placed the World No. 2 just outside the cutline, intensifying the pressure.
McIlroy managed to recover, carding a 3-under 68 in his second round to secure his place in the weekend. Expressing relief, he acknowledged that an early exit would have been a major disappointment for all involved.
