Rory McIlroy isn’t spending the night before The Open’s final round at the practice range or obsessing over stats. Instead, the four-time major champion has a far more relaxed and unexpected approach to preparing for Sunday’s pressure.
A different kind of game plan as McIlroy looks to catch Scheffler
His plan? Dinner, sleep, and a little more of Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer.
While Scottie Scheffler heads into Sunday holding the lead at 14-under, McIlroy sits six strokes behind at 8-under. He’ll be paired with Matt Fitzpatrick, who’s one shot ahead of him at 9-under.
When asked about his prep for Sunday, McIlroy laid it out plainly.
“Grab some dinner, try to sleep as much as I can,” he said. “Watched New Zealand-France and the Lions game earlier. No rugby tomorrow, so I’ll probably finish watching Oppenheimer.”
McIlroy started the film the night before and plans to watch another chunk before his tee time. With its intense pacing and cerebral tone, Nolan’s epic might just help him escape the moment and settle his thoughts.
The Northern Irishman knows he needs a fast start if he wants a shot at catching Scheffler.
“I’ve got a chance. I need to get off to a great start like I did today,” he said. “I’ve come from behind before at big tournaments and won. If I can do that again, anything’s possible.”
McIlroy also acknowledged the mountain in front of him.
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“Scottie is the best player in the world right now. He’s just so consistent. Catching him won’t be easy, but I’m looking forward to trying.”
Whether the blockbuster has the calming effect McIlroy hopes for remains to be seen, but his mindset is clear: stay composed, swing confidently, and hope the leader hears footsteps behind him.
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