Golf analyst Paul McGinley believes that slow play by his playing partner Akshay Bhatia contributed to Rory McIlroy’s collapse on the 15th hole of the 2025 Masters. However, McGinley quickly clarified that he doesn’t blame Bhatia or other players for McIlroy’s double bogey. Instead, he put the blame squarely on McIlroy’s shoulders, arguing that “great champions” maintain concentration regardless of what happens on the course.
McIlroy was leading after a great drive on the par-5 15th hole but collapsed after his second shot went over the green and he hit a chip into the water. The slow play by Bhatia, who took about 10 practice swings before hitting his approach, distracted McIlroy and caused him to lose focus. McGinley said that McIlroy “got distracted” due to the delay in playing his pitch shot.
Despite not being responsible for McIlroy’s collapse, McGinley acknowledged that Bhatia’s slow play was a factor. However, he emphasized that great champions don’t let distractions affect their game. McIlroy will start the second round seven shots behind leader Justin Rose after signing for an even-par 72 on Thursday.
Bhatia, on the other hand, had a more successful day, saving bogey on 15 and reeling off three birdies in a row to close out an opening-round 70.
Source: https://golf.com/news/analyst-slow-play-led-rory-mcilroy-masters-collapse