Rory McIlroy blamed missed chances at the US PGA Championship for his failure to reach the podium.

The 37-year-old started the final round at Aronimink Golf Club in south-west Philadelphia sitting three shots behind the leaders.

However, during Sunday’s final round, he could only manage to post a one-under-par 69 to finish five strokes adrift of champion Aaron Rai.

NEWTOWN, PENNSYLVANIA – MAY 17: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland looks on from the 15th green during the final round of the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club on May 17, 2026 in Newtown, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Multiple birdie opportunities were missed during the closing round, as McIlroy couldn’t capitalise on the two par fives.

However, he was reasonably satisfied he had managed to claw his way back into contention after opening the tournament with a four-over 74.

‘I played good golf in the last two rounds. I gave myself a chance, and that’s all I could really ask for after Thursday,’ McIlroy said.

NEWTOWN, PENNSYLVANIA – MAY 17: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland reacts after playing his shot from the sixth tee during the final round of the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club on May 17, 2026 in Newtown, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

‘I’ll rue three holes today that I didn’t take advantage of, and that was the difference between a top five and having a realistic chance today.

‘I think in these major championships I lean on my experience, and I lean on my ability to get the ball in the hole, which is probably better than it ever has been. You know, my chipping, my putting, and scrambling.

‘A set-up like this, that’s what you have to rely on.’

The Holywood golfer had been struggling with a foot problem in the lead-up to this year’s PGA Championship, with his practice rounds interrupted by the niggling issue.

On Tuesday, McIlroy had to abandon his practice round after just three holes, revealing that he had ripped the nail off of his pinky toe the night before.