Rory McIlroy Nowhere in Sight as Amanda Balionis Includes LIV Golf Pros & More in Her Farewell to Quail Hollow

“No one is obligated to talk; it’s a choice,“ wrote Amanda Balionis, taking a subtle jab at Rory McIlroy after he skipped media interactions for the fourth day in a row following his disappointing finish at the 2025 PGA Championship. Balionis praised Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau for taking the time to talk to the media after a tough loss of finishing at T8 and T2, respectively. “Appreciate these two for taking the time to talk after a gutting loss”, she wrote, highlighting the value it brings to viewers. And if you thought the reporter was done with her sly digs at the 2025 Masters champion, you’re so wrong.

In her latest Instagram post, Amanda Balionis gave a behind-the-scenes tour of the PGA Championship, and everyone couldn’t help but notice—she didn’t mention McIlroy once. She took us on a wild ride of her busy day, starting with “First is always coffee” before heading to the 18th green for “address rehearsal of the trophy presentation.” She even squeezed in some glam time, noting, “And then after hair and makeup, we head to the set.“ The Wanamaker trophy’s arrival signaled the official start of the show, and Balionis was all about the excitement. She then added pictures of her interviews with Rahm and DeChambeau, subtly hinting at McIlroy, who avoided the media for the whole major.

There have been speculations about why McIlroy avoided the media all four days of the competition. It is believed because of his illegal driver controversy. For those who do not know, the USGA tested golfers’ drivers this past week, and Rory’s was declared non-conforming, meaning he had to change it. Earlier, the narrative was that it was only him who got the ruling, but later Scheffler revealed that he also changed his driver as his was also declared non-conforming. 

As she wrapped up the week, Balionis reflected on the highlights, including watching Scottie Scheffler’s family react to his major win, which she described as “incredible”.  Well, the way Scheffler’s wife celebrated the victory was surely a sight—who wouldn’t melt at Meredith’s emotional words, “I’m so proud of you… I’m so happy, I love you so much,” on a live broadcast? Meanwhile, Scottie was busy being a total dad, scooping up son Bennett in a big hug and carrying him around the grounds like his own trophy, basking in the glory of his 11-under overall win. The win came after a dominating five-shot victory on Sunday’s final round and made him the first since 1983 to have a 3+ stroke victory.

With her trademark style, she shared the chaos of her day, from doing interviews to rushing across the bridge for the presentation. And, of course, a well-deserved toast to a great week with Elijah Craig’s old fashions – “So cheers to a great week. So cheers and bye.” Balionis not mentioning McIlroy even once has fans wondering if there is a deeper layer to these subtle jabs.

Everything seemed fine between Rory McIlroy and Amanda Balionis just a month ago

At the 2025 Masters, Rory McIlroy had a friendly interview with Amanda Balionis, where he spoke warmly about his support system. McIlroy described his parents as instrumental in his golf career, saying, “As an only child, the support that I had from my parents — they saw some potential in me as a golfer and they gave me every opportunity to try to fulfill that potential.” He also affectionately mentioned his daughter Poppy, stating, “To have Poppy there — I want to make her proud.” McIlroy’s gratitude towards his family was palpable, and it’s clear that they play an important role in his life.

Their interaction seemed genuinely friendly, with McIlroy opening up about his journey and the people who matter to him. He even shared a touching moment with his mom, saying, “Talking to them on the phone after I won, my mom probably still hasn’t stopped crying.” Given their cordial rapport at the Masters, it’s notable that their dynamic might have shifted since then, especially considering Balionis’s recent comments that seem to have taken a slightly different tone.

This change in tone has sparked interest, and many are left wondering: What’s behind the shift in their dynamic? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!

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