Rory McIlroy has claimed his first victory of the year by retaining the Canadian Open title, which he won in 2019, the last time it was held. McIlroy, who is among the star players that did not leave for the LIV Golf Invitational, finished 19 under par, with a final day eight-under round. Coming in at second place was Tony Finau at 17 under and Justin Thomas, who ended the tournament with 15 under. The course was without the likes of Dustin Thomas and Bryson DeChambeau, who have both moved to the Saudi-backed league and have been suspended by the PGA.

Sunday was a good day for McIlroy, who made eight birdies in the first 12 holes as he also birdied his last two holes. Despite his early performance, McIlroy saw his lead drop as Finau came to share the lead with him at some point. McIlroy was closely pressed by Finau and Thomas, who were making birdies, matching him by play. But he was able to regain the lead, and the birdies at the final two holes were enough to help seal his victory.

McIlroy’s victory came at a time marked by so much controversy in golf. But all the noise did not get to McIlroy as he won his 21st PGA Tour title eight months after winning his last. After his win, the Northern Irishman took a jab at the LIV Golf Invitational by referring to the PGA Tour as the “best tour in the world.” This is also coming as he now equals the number of titles of Greg Norman, who is the face of the LIV Golf Invitational.

Speaking after the game, he said: “It’s incredible, playing with Tony and JT today – two of the top players in the world, all of us playing the way we did. I think the worst score in the group was six under par.

“It’s the best tour in the world with the best talent. It feels really good to go out there and beat someone like JT, who is one of the best players I have ever played with.”

Written by: Leon Osamor