Rory McIlroy is heading into the US PGA Championship in a surprisingly relaxed mood so relaxed, in fact, that he casually ripped off one of his toenails to deal with the pain before the tournament even began.
The world number two has been preparing for this week’s major championship at Aronimink Golf Club in Pennsylvania, where he will try to win a third PGA Championship title. Despite the pressure of another major, McIlroy appeared calm and comfortable while speaking to reporters during practice week.
McIlroy revealed that a blister and damaged toenail on his right foot had been bothering him after last week’s tournament. Instead of making a big deal out of it, he handled the issue himself.
He joked with reporters about the situation and even showed his foot while explaining that the pain had become annoying enough for him to remove the toenail completely. According to McIlroy, the problem is now under control and should not affect his game this week.
The 37-year-old arrives at the PGA Championship full of confidence after successfully defending his Masters title earlier this year. That victory gave him his sixth major championship and strengthened his place among the greatest golfers of his generation.
Unlike many players who spend every week competing before a major, McIlroy has taken a different approach in recent months. He has focused more on rest, family time, and carefully planned practice sessions instead of playing nonstop tournaments.
Last week, he briefly visited Aronimink to study the course conditions ahead of the championship. McIlroy said the course is playing much firmer and faster than when he last competed there in 2018, meaning accuracy on the greens could become the key challenge for players.
McIlroy also joked about his preparation methods after some critics claimed he had an advantage before winning the Masters earlier this year. He laughed off those comments and made it clear that he simply prefers preparing in the way that works best for him.
The Northern Irish star believes staying mentally fresh is just as important as spending long hours on the golf course. After many years of dealing with pressure and expectations, McIlroy now seems more comfortable enjoying the moment and trusting his experience.
Golf fans will once again expect him to challenge for the title this week, especially after his strong recent form in major tournaments. Many experts already see him as one of the favorites alongside Scottie Scheffler heading into the championship.
If McIlroy manages to lift the Wanamaker Trophy again, his unusual toenail story may become one of the most memorable and bizarre moments linked to a major-winning week.
