Rory McIlroy apologizes for bending wedge at 2013 U.S. Open
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Rory McIlroy apologizes for bending wedge at 2013 U.S. Open

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Rory McIlroy and his 9-iron are again on speaking terms.

McIlroy apologized Wednesday in a news conference ahead of this week's Irish Open for bending his 9-iron on the 11th hole of the final round at the U.S. Open. It was an act of frustration on the short hole after his approach shot found a water hazard en route to a quadruple-bogey 8.

“I just got frustrated and it definitely was not the right thing to do,” McIlroy said. “I wouldn’t recommend anyone or anyone watching on TV or any kids to start throwing their clubs or bending their 9-irons. But the 9-iron is intact and has a new shaft this week and it’s ready to go.”

The Ulsterman has struggled to nail down the Irish Open crown. Here's a look at his record:

2012 - T-10
2011 - T-34
2010 - T-35
2009 - T-50
2008 - 7th

He'll look for his first worldwide win of the season this week at Carton House. But the roller-coaster of a season McIlroy has had is hardly surprising to Irishman and 2014 Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley, who does not see the world No. 2 as a model of consistency.

“Rory’s never going to be a flat-line golfer like Nick Faldo,” McGinley said, according to a story in the Irish Independent. “I think it’s in his DNA to be an up-and-down player and I think that’s going to be part of his career for the rest of his life.”

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