Golf ace's remarks following his latest stint have sparked a flurry of debate among fans and pundits alike. The five-time major winner, who avoided journalists after the opening rounds, broke his silence speaking to the press after seven long championship rounds across major tournaments.

McIlroy, fresh from his Masters triumph, at the Pennsylvania course. Not only did he express hesitation about continuing past Friday's round, but he also stoked controversy by stating that he has "earned the right" to select when he engages with media outlets.

This candidness stirred a reaction on social media; some enthusiasts dubbed McIlroy's attitude as brashness, while others slung harsher words calling him a "Complete loser" and "So unlikable."

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Nevertheless, it wasn't all criticism thrown at the Northern Irish pro, as some supporters came to his defence. Amidst the backlash, a supporter argued, recognising McIlroy's slate of achievements including his career grand slam.

"I'm not even a huge fan of Rory but people need to give this dude a break. He doesn't have to prove anything to anyone. He's one a few players alive with a grand slam in his pocket. Let the man be," reports .

The European Ryder Cup hero has been making headlines not just for his swings but also for his silence. Last month at the PGA Championship, he made a statement by refusing to speak after each round at Quail Hollow.

This followed the revelation that McIlroy had to switch clubs just before the major tournament began because his driver face didn't pass a routine USGA check. When probed about whether the drama over his non-conforming driver influenced his media blackout, he admitted: "I mean, that was a part of it. Yeah, that was a part of it.

"But it's not as if -- like at Augusta, I skipped you guys on Thursday, so yeah, again, it's not as if it's not out of the ordinary. I've done it before; I'm just doing it a little more often." McIlroy has faced a challenging time on the course at Oakmont, with even the world's top players struggling against the punishing conditions.

On Friday, the 36-year-old had to pull off two late birdies just to stay above the cut line. When asked about his close shave on Saturday, McIlroy candidly said: "It's funny, like it's much easier being on the cut line when you don't really care if you're here for the weekend or not."

McIlroy seemed to be looking forward to a swift departure from the championship, saying: "I was sort of thinking, do I really want two more days here or not. So it makes it easier to play better when you're in that mindset."

He added: "Hopefully a round in under four and a half hours and get out of here," indicating his desire to wrap up his final round quickly on Sunday, with an early tee time awaiting him as he sits at 10-over with 18 holes remaining.