Rory McIlroy to take a few weeks off after 'toughest' day at US Open

Rory McIlroy will take "a few weeks away from the game to process everything" after his gut-wrenching final round of the US Open.

The Irishman missed two short putts in the closing stages at Pinehurst on Sunday to see a first major title in 10 years agonisingly slip away.

McIlroy stormed off the course without fulfilling media duties after blowing a two-shot lead with five to play and handing victory to Bryson DeChambeau.

McIlroy, who was clearly disconsolate after extending his 10-year wait for an elusive fifth major, has withdrawn from this week's Travelers Championship in Connecticut.

He posted on X on Monday evening: "Yesterday was a tough day, probably the toughest I've had in my nearly 17 years as a professional golfer.

"Firstly, I’d like to congratulate Bryson. He is a worthy champion and exactly what professional golf needs right now. I think we can all agree on that.

"As I reflect on my week, I’ll rue a few things over the course of the tournament, mostly the 2 missed putts on 16 and 18 on the final day. But, as I always try to do, I’ll look at the positives of the week that far outweigh the negatives.

"As I said at the start of the tournament, I feel closer to winning my next major championship than I ever have.

"The one word that I would describe my career as is resilient. I’ve shown my resilience over and over again in the last 17 years and I will again.

"I’m going to take a few weeks away from the game to process everything and build myself back up for my defence of the Genesis Scottish Open and The Open at Royal Troon. See you in Scotland."

McIlroy was in mid-air on his plane home within an hour of signing his card at the end of his gut-wrenching round, and how long it takes him to get over the disappointment remains