Rory McIlroy’s stay in the U.S. Open field nearly lasted just two days.

But a birdie on the 18th hole salvaged his second round (2-over) to get him through two days at 6-under at Oakmont Country Club, barely sneaking past the cutline nine years after he missed the cut the last time the major was held at Oakmont.

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McIlroy’s second round turned into a nightmare, too, as on different occasions he chucked his club following a shot on the 12th hole and smashed a tee marker five holes later.

But the 2025 Masters winner recovered enough to at least have a chance during the final 36 holes, though he trails leader Sam Burns by nine shots.