The Loop

Rory McIlroy struggles in first competitive round with new putter

August 25, 2016
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FARMINGDALE, N.Y. -- After an even-par 71 on Thursday to begin the Barclays, Rory McIlroy said he felt the score, "was a fair reflection of how I played." Maybe so, but it didn't reflect how poorly he putted.

In his first competitive round using his new Scotty Cameron mallet model, McIlroy struggled on Bethpage Black's greens. The four-time major champ finished the round at an abysmal -2.304 strokes gained/putting and had several misses from close range.

Oddly, McIlroy, who ended Day 1 of the FedEx Cup Playoff opener at T-33, said his misses are mainly left on the putting green, but right on the course. He also noted the switch from the Nike Method he has used the past few years is going to take some time.

"I felt a little tentative at the start," said McIlroy, who entered this week 96th on the PGA Tour in SGP. "I left a couple short early on and then I missed the short one on the fourth hole today. I struggled a bit, but I stayed with it and stayed patient."

On Tuesday, McIlroy also said he's going to be patient switching equipment companies in the wake of Nike Golf exiting the golf club business.

"No reason to start changing just because I can. I'm comfortable with everything," McIlroy said. "I've got them to save me three years' worth of golf balls, so at least I've got a golf ball that I like and that I know that I can play well with.

"I'm not going to commit to anything. I wouldn't be surprised to see me not go with a manufacturer for a year or two, just sort of play with what I want to play, play with what I'm comfortable with, and go from there."

That includes putting with a Scotty Cameron. At least, for now.