In a moment that has stunned both fans and insiders, sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis has ignited a storm of controversy after deliberately excluding Rory McIlroy from her list of top contenders for the 2025 US Open. During a live segment where analysts were asked to give their predictions for the upcoming championship, Balionis made a series of confident picks—naming Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and even an underdog from the amateur circuit—but notably left out one of the biggest names in golf.
The omission wasn’t just a passive oversight—it was a pointed gesture. When her colleague casually mentioned McIlroy’s name and suggested he could finally break his major drought, Balionis responded with a flat, almost icy smile and simply said, “Not this time.” The studio went silent for a split second, and what followed has since turned into a social media frenzy.
For Rory McIlroy, a four-time major champion who hasn’t clinched a major since 2014, the public snub is not only personal—it hits at the heart of his ongoing struggle to regain dominance. Over the past few seasons, McIlroy has flirted with major success but often faltered in key moments, leading to a growing list of skeptics. Still, to be dismissed so publicly by someone as visible and influential as Balionis was seen by many as crossing a line.
“She didn’t just forget him—she erased him,” tweeted one user. Another post that went viral read: “Amanda just ended Rory’s confidence on live TV. Ruthless.” Within hours, “#JusticeForRory” began trending on X (formerly Twitter), as fans came to McIlroy’s defense.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Balionis and McIlroy have been part of a subtly tense moment. Rumors have floated for years about a strained rapport between the two, especially during McIlroy’s vocal involvement in PGA-LIV politics—something Balionis has avoided discussing on air. Whether personal or professional, her recent dismissal of McIlroy feels too sharp to be a coincidence.
Industry insiders, meanwhile, are divided. Some argue that Balionis was simply expressing an honest opinion based on performance and form. “She’s a journalist, not a cheerleader,” said one commentator. “Maybe we should focus more on Rory’s game and less on his hurt feelings.” Others, however, point out that this move felt unusually cold, especially from someone known for her measured tone and professionalism.
McIlroy has yet to respond directly to the comment, but his team released a short statement saying he is “focused on his preparation” and “excited for the challenges ahead.” Whether that translates into fuel for a comeback or added pressure on an already scrutinized campaign remains to be seen.
One thing is certain: Amanda Balionis has lit a fire under this year’s US Open even before the first tee shot. And now, all eyes are not just on McIlroy’s swing—but on whether he can prove her, and his growing list of doubters, completely wrong.
