Rory McIlroy got snippy Wednesday with a reporter who appeared to insinuate that the six-time major champion isn\u2019t working hard when he\u2019s not playing in tournaments.<\/p>\n
The exchange took place during a press conference before the Scottish Open<\/a>, which began Thursday ahead of next week\u2019s British Open at Royal Birkdale.<\/p>\n McIlroy was asked if he has to \u201cwork a bit harder to get up to speed or to shake off some rust\u201d because he doesn\u2019t play as frequently as he used to.<\/p>\n Rory McIlroy speaks to the media ahead of the Scottish Open on July 8, 2026. Getty Images<\/p>\n \u201cBecause we\u2019ve also seen a couple of extra sessions from you on the range, haven\u2019t we?\u201d the reporter continued.<\/p>\n \u201cHave you?\u201d McIlroy replied.<\/p>\n \u201cAugusta, one of the other majors, didn\u2019t you have a storming session?\u201d the reporter asked.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you think I do in my off weeks?\u201d McIlroy shot back.<\/p>\n \u201cNot work that hard. Seems to come easy to you,\u201d the reporter responded.<\/p>\n Rory McIlroy was not impressed at being questioned about his work ethic because he is playing in less events these days, “What do you think I do in my off weeks?” + “I work hard.” pic.twitter.com\/gwHqKdeMuj<\/a><\/p>\n