Denny McCarthy ‘heartbroken’ after runner-up at the Memorial

Denny McCarthy experienced a heart-wrenching moment as he finished as the runner-up at the Memorial Tournament. After a remarkable performance throughout the tournament, McCarthy found himself in a playoff with Viktor Hovland. However, a crucial bogey on the 72nd hole and another on the first playoff hole dashed his hopes of claiming his first TOUR title.

Leading up to the 18th tee on Sunday at Muirfield Village GC, McCarthy had demonstrated his skills on the challenging course. But an errant drive into thick rough forced him to settle for a layup, resulting in a disappointing bogey. This tied him with Hovland at 7 under. Unfortunately, McCarthy's second shot during the playoff also led to a bogey when it rolled back off the front of the green. Hovland managed to secure a par and claim the victory.

While McCarthy appeared shaken, he remained determined. Despite the heartbreak, he confidently assured tournament host Jack Nicklaus that he would bounce back and continue his pursuit of a TOUR win. McCarthy had come close before, with 45 top-25 finishes, and this performance showcased his potential. With exceptional putting skills, he had established himself as one of the best players without a TOUR title.

Expressing his disappointment to the media, McCarthy acknowledged how close he had come to victory but emphasized the need to keep working hard. He recognized that success was within reach and remained optimistic about his future prospects. In the final round of the tournament, McCarthy had started in fourth place, just one stroke behind the co-leaders. Despite the challenges posed by the course and the presence of formidable competitors, he held onto his position at the top until the 72nd hole.

Throughout the tournament, McCarthy and his caddie, Derek Smith, displayed calmness and composure. Their smiles persisted, even in the face of adversity. McCarthy admitted to feeling nervous and having adrenaline coursing through his veins, but he embraced the pressure and thrived on the competitive aspect of the game. He viewed discomfort as an opportunity to demonstrate control over his emotions and to improve as a competitor.

In a critical moment during regulation play, McCarthy had a chance to secure victory with a par putt. Unfortunately, it slid past the hole, resulting in a knee-knocking putt to force the playoff. McCarthy successfully made the putt, but in the subsequent playoff, he was unable to convert a 12-footer for par. Hovland clinched the win with a two-putt par, and McCarthy quietly accepted the outcome.

Looking ahead, McCarthy remained resolute and determined. He considered this experience a valuable lesson and an opportunity for growth. As a fierce competitor who never gives up, he saw this setback as motivation to continue pushing himself and improving his game. McCarthy's unwavering determination and willingness to learn from his experiences will undoubtedly contribute to his future success on the TOUR.