‘Blame the Caddie’: Rory McIlroy Hits Back with F-bomb Following Fan’s Jibe During Tough Genesis Invitational Showing

Ludvig Aberg made a triumphant return to Torrey Pines, showcasing his improved fitness by carding birdies on four of the last six holes to secure a narrow one-shot victory over Maverick McNealy at the Genesis Invitational.

Aberg had shared the lead after 36 holes in the Farmers Insurance Open at the same venue just three weeks prior, however, he was struck down by a severe illness that forced him to withdraw the following week after losing 10 pounds.

This weekend’s tournament was relocated to Torrey Pines from Riviera due to wildfires in Los Angeles, giving Aberg another opportunity to shine on one of his preferred courses.

“It was a fantastic battle,” Aberg remarked. “I’m extremely proud of how I finished.”

“It was really special,” he added.

Aberg faced tough competition throughout the tournament. McNealy made an impressive start, carding birdies on eight of his first eleven holes and held a three-shot lead as he approached the 17th tee, finishing with two pars for a score of 64.

“This is more than I could have wished for at the beginning of the day… Ludvig was exceptional,” McNealy reflected after starting five shots off the lead.

“I knew I had to play outstanding golf with that leaderboard in mind.”

Aberg claimed a lucrative prize of $6.3 million AUD, marking his third victory on the world stage since turning professional, and he now sits at No. 4 in the world rankings.

Scottie Scheffler finished tied for third with Patrick Rodgers (71), after falling five shots behind with a 76 on Sunday, his highest score in almost three years.

Despite his struggles, Scheffler managed a brief surge. He began with a stunning 31, featuring five birdies and even a chip-in on the fifth hole, closing the gap to just one shot—however, he couldn’t afford any slip-ups and made two mistakes along the way.

Scheffler’s competition included Rory McIlroy, with Scheffler pulling five shots clear on the front nine.

McIlroy faced his own challenges, struggling on the greens and finishing with a bogey from the water on the 18th, carding a 72.

During his round, McIlroy’s putting difficulties even led to a tense moment with a spectator.

Meanwhile, tournament host Tiger Woods observed the unfolding drama from the broadcasting booth, having withdrawn due to personal reasons following the passing of his mother, Kultida, the previous week. Players wore red buttons featuring the Thai symbol for love in her memory.