Fans think thinly-veiled dig was aimed at Rory McIlroy by US journo

It's not the first time McIlroy has done this.

Balionis was conducting a post-round interview with the Californian, just after he fell short of winning the PGA Championship. The US sports reporter finished up the interview by thanking DeChambeau for his time.

Balionis added:  "I know you don't have to take the time, but we appreciate it."

In addition to this comment, Balionis took to Instagram to post a picture of a side-by-side of her interviewing Jon Rahm, and also DeChambeau.

She again made a point to thank both golfers for their "time to talk" after their losses. Balionis also stated in the caption that "no one is obligated to talk" to the media, and that it is a "choice".

These comments have led fans to believe that they're directed at McIlroy, who avoided post-round interviews yet again across all four days.

US golf journalist, Kyle Porter, took a more direct approach when taking shots at the reigning Masters champion, by taking to X to address the situation.

Porter wrote that McIlroy skipping four days of interviews, was "bizarre and deserves criticism". He also believes that refusing to do his media duties, was "an abdication of responsibility as one of the greats".

Porter added: "He talks a ton, more than anyone, and I don't need his quotes to write a dumb newsletter."

McIlroy endured a difficult weekend at Quail Hollow, finishing three over par for the tournament on Sunday. He ended up placing tied-47th, with more drama surrounding the Masters champion over his driver breaking the rules and being taken away from him.