Professional golfer Rory McIlroy made an early exit from the Honda Classic Friday, setting off a wave of criticism over his controversial departure from the course.
After just eight holes, the no. 1 golfer in the world left the tournament early.
There was some speculation that he made the impromptu departure because he was experiencing "severe wisdom tooth pain affecting concentration," according to the PGA Tour and people close to him.
But McIlroy agreed to be interviewed by Golf.com's Michael Bamberger and explained the situation himself.
"It was a reactive decision," he said. "What I should have done is take my drop, chip it on, try to make a five and play my hardest on the back nine, even if I shot 85. What I did was not good for the tournament, not good for the kids and the fans who were out there watching me-it was not the right thing to do."
There has also been some speculation in the golf world that McIlroy's lackluster performance was due to faulty Nike equipment.
McIlroy responded to that rumor as well.
"The driver and the ball took some time to get used to, but I had weeks at Nike before the start of the year, and I feel comfortable with all the equipment," he said. "The problem is, I'm bringing the club too upright on the backswing then dropping it in too much on the downswing."
McIlroy is slated to play at the WGC-CA Championship this week at Doral.
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