Main image of Rory McIlroy and caddie Harry Diamond walking ahead of Bryson DeChambeau and his caddie, Greg Bodine with inset photo of Dr Bob Rotella (Image credit: Getty Images) Jonny Leighfield’s avatar By Jonny Leighfield published 2 weeks ago Rory McIlroy’s sports psychologist, Dr Bob Rotella has explained why the Northern Irishman did not engage in conversation with Bryson DeChambeau during The Masters final round on Sunday. Prior to McIlroy’s emotional playoff victory over Justin Rose at Augusta National last week, DeChambeau raised eyebrows in his post-tournament interview by revealing that his playing partner “didn’t talk to me once all day” after being asked how he thought the 35-year-old would fare against his Ryder Cup teammate in extra holes. DeChambeau went on to say that he “loved” the “electric” atmosphere at Augusta National before turning his attention back to McIlroy. The LIV golfer said: “But he was just like — just being focused, I guess. It’s not me, though.” Later in his post-round interview, DeChambeau was specifically asked whether he tried to initiate conversation with McIlroy, but the 31-year-old simply stated: “He wouldn’t talk to me.” McIlroy and DeChambeau were paired together at the business end of the season’s first Major for the first time since their enthralling indirect US Open battle at Pinehurst No.2 last summer – a championship which the 29-time PGA Tour winner threw away, allowing his LIV Golf rival to steal the show in dramatic fashion moments later. Bryson DeChambeau and Rory McIlroy shake hands on the 18th green after the final round of The Masters in 2025 DeChambeau and McIlroy shake hands on the 18th green after the final round of The 2025 Masters (Image credit: Getty Images) Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s ‘Today’ program on Tuesday, Rotella – a key part of McIlroy’s team – shared that the five-time Major winner’s intense focus was not a personal issue with his American rival but something they had discussed in the build-up and during The Masters itself. The renowned sports psychologist said: “That didn’t have anything to do with Bryson. That was just the game plan all week and we wanted to get lost in it. Get the Golf Monthly Newsletter Subscribe to the Golf Monthly newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest tour news, equipment news, reviews, head-to-heads and buyer’s guides from our team of experienced experts. Your Email Address Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. “We didn’t want to pay attention to what anyone else was scoring, or shooting, or swinging or how far they were hitting it – we just wanted Rory to play his game. “The point is, if you believe you’re going to win, just play your game and assume that if you do that anywhere near the way you’re capable of, then you will end up number one. “If you watched Rory, he was very locked into his own world. It’s just you and the golf course and your caddie. You get lost in this world that you’ve made up, and play the game you love. I think he did a beautiful job of that all day. He did so many things to bounce back time after time.” Harry Diamond and Rory McIlroy at The Masters McIlroy and caddie, Harry Diamond ponder a shot at The Masters (Image credit: Getty Images) While doing his best to retain that sole focus which would ultimately help him complete the career Grand Slam, McIlroy was frequently seen glancing at his yardage book – perhaps even more than he might usually. The sports psychologist shared that there were helpful reminders from him contained within the book which McIlroy took great comfort in referring to in moments of discomfort. And, given the tumultuous nature of McIlroy’s final round, there were a few. Rotella continued: “We would have a chat every day before the round, and he would make some notes, and every couple of holes, he would take a look around to remind yourself. That’s what he was looking at.” A post shared by The Masters (@themasters) A photo posted by on Having ended an 11-year wait for his latest Major, the common question being asked regarding McIlroy now is ‘how many more can he win and when will the next one be?’ The psychologist in McIlroy’s corner believes several more are on the cards and, now that the chains are off, so to speak, it will be a whole lot of fun to watch him try and go about it. Rotella said: “My guess is that he will go on and win quite a few more, I think he’s thinking of having a multiple win season… It’s going to be a lot of fun to see how many more he can win. “His year is off to great start, now he’s got a chance to have the greatest year he’s ever had. He’s getting tough mentally and emotionally, and that’s such a big part of it – you’ve got to have will that’s like steel.” TOPICS

Main image of Rory McIlroy and caddie Harry Diamond walking ahead of Bryson DeChambeau and his caddie, Greg Bodine with inset photo of Dr Bob Rotella (Image credit: Getty Images) …

Main image of Rory McIlroy and caddie Harry Diamond walking ahead of Bryson DeChambeau and his caddie, Greg Bodine with inset photo of Dr Bob Rotella (Image credit: Getty Images) Jonny Leighfield’s avatar By Jonny Leighfield published 2 weeks ago Rory McIlroy’s sports psychologist, Dr Bob Rotella has explained why the Northern Irishman did not engage in conversation with Bryson DeChambeau during The Masters final round on Sunday. Prior to McIlroy’s emotional playoff victory over Justin Rose at Augusta National last week, DeChambeau raised eyebrows in his post-tournament interview by revealing that his playing partner “didn’t talk to me once all day” after being asked how he thought the 35-year-old would fare against his Ryder Cup teammate in extra holes. DeChambeau went on to say that he “loved” the “electric” atmosphere at Augusta National before turning his attention back to McIlroy. The LIV golfer said: “But he was just like — just being focused, I guess. It’s not me, though.” Later in his post-round interview, DeChambeau was specifically asked whether he tried to initiate conversation with McIlroy, but the 31-year-old simply stated: “He wouldn’t talk to me.” McIlroy and DeChambeau were paired together at the business end of the season’s first Major for the first time since their enthralling indirect US Open battle at Pinehurst No.2 last summer – a championship which the 29-time PGA Tour winner threw away, allowing his LIV Golf rival to steal the show in dramatic fashion moments later. Bryson DeChambeau and Rory McIlroy shake hands on the 18th green after the final round of The Masters in 2025 DeChambeau and McIlroy shake hands on the 18th green after the final round of The 2025 Masters (Image credit: Getty Images) Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s ‘Today’ program on Tuesday, Rotella – a key part of McIlroy’s team – shared that the five-time Major winner’s intense focus was not a personal issue with his American rival but something they had discussed in the build-up and during The Masters itself. The renowned sports psychologist said: “That didn’t have anything to do with Bryson. That was just the game plan all week and we wanted to get lost in it. Get the Golf Monthly Newsletter Subscribe to the Golf Monthly newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest tour news, equipment news, reviews, head-to-heads and buyer’s guides from our team of experienced experts. Your Email Address Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. “We didn’t want to pay attention to what anyone else was scoring, or shooting, or swinging or how far they were hitting it – we just wanted Rory to play his game. “The point is, if you believe you’re going to win, just play your game and assume that if you do that anywhere near the way you’re capable of, then you will end up number one. “If you watched Rory, he was very locked into his own world. It’s just you and the golf course and your caddie. You get lost in this world that you’ve made up, and play the game you love. I think he did a beautiful job of that all day. He did so many things to bounce back time after time.” Harry Diamond and Rory McIlroy at The Masters McIlroy and caddie, Harry Diamond ponder a shot at The Masters (Image credit: Getty Images) While doing his best to retain that sole focus which would ultimately help him complete the career Grand Slam, McIlroy was frequently seen glancing at his yardage book – perhaps even more than he might usually. The sports psychologist shared that there were helpful reminders from him contained within the book which McIlroy took great comfort in referring to in moments of discomfort. And, given the tumultuous nature of McIlroy’s final round, there were a few. Rotella continued: “We would have a chat every day before the round, and he would make some notes, and every couple of holes, he would take a look around to remind yourself. That’s what he was looking at.” A post shared by The Masters (@themasters) A photo posted by on Having ended an 11-year wait for his latest Major, the common question being asked regarding McIlroy now is ‘how many more can he win and when will the next one be?’ The psychologist in McIlroy’s corner believes several more are on the cards and, now that the chains are off, so to speak, it will be a whole lot of fun to watch him try and go about it. Rotella said: “My guess is that he will go on and win quite a few more, I think he’s thinking of having a multiple win season… It’s going to be a lot of fun to see how many more he can win. “His year is off to great start, now he’s got a chance to have the greatest year he’s ever had. He’s getting tough mentally and emotionally, and that’s such a big part of it – you’ve got to have will that’s like steel.” TOPICS Read More

Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” Initiative: From Controversy to Conservative Praise Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! campaign, launched in 2010, was one of the most ambitious public health initiatives of its time. Designed to combat childhood obesity, the campaign aimed to promote healthier eating habits, increase physical activity, and improve nutrition education in schools. However, the initiative quickly became a lightning rod for criticism, particularly from conservative circles that framed it as an example of government overreach. Interestingly, more than a decade later, Let’s Move! has undergone a surprising transformation in the media narrative, with some of its fiercest former critics now citing it as an example of common-sense public health policy. The Initial Controversy At its core, Let’s Move! sought to address a real and growing public health crisis. Childhood obesity rates in the U.S. had reached alarming levels, with researchers warning of long-term consequences such as increased risks of diabetes, heart disease, and other health complications. The campaign advocated for schools to serve healthier meals with reduced sugar, fat, and sodium while encouraging children to engage in more physical activity. Barack Can’t Convince His Wife She Has To Do Her Duty?”: The Internet Is Firing Back After A Fox News Host Questioned Why Michelle Obama Won’t Attend Trump’s Inauguration Despite the initiative’s noble goals, conservative media and political figures quickly took issue with its approach. Critics argued that Let’s Move! represented an unnecessary government intrusion into personal choices. Prominent figures on Fox News and other right-leaning outlets ridiculed the campaign, with commentators like Glenn Beck and Sean Hannity warning that it was a step toward excessive regulation of Americans’ diets. A major point of contention was the implementation of new federal school lunch guidelines. While the updated meals were designed to be healthier, many students found them unappetizing, leading to complaints about bland food and small portions. Social media became flooded with images of unappetizing school lunches, fueling accusations that the program was ineffective and wasteful. The backlash was intense, with conservatives portraying the initiative as an example of government overreach into everyday life. The Surprising Shift in Perspective More than a decade later, the narrative surrounding Let’s Move! has shifted dramatically. In a surprising twist, the very media outlets that once decried the initiative are now using it as an example of responsible public health policy. The reason? The rise of the fat positivity movement, a cultural force that challenges traditional views on weight and health. Some progressive activists now argue that society’s emphasis on fitness and dieting is rooted in systemic discrimination. Events like “Fat Con,” a conference in Philadelphia promoting fat positivity, have framed weight loss efforts as a form of oppression. These new perspectives have led to a backlash against conventional health initiatives, including those that promote exercise and balanced eating. Fox News Hosts Praise Michelle Obama’s ‘Amazing’ DNC Speech – Newsweek This has created an ironic moment where figures on the right, who once criticized Let’s Move!, now point to it as a reasonable middle ground. Conservative media figures, including those on Outnumbered and Gutfeld!, have expressed disbelief that weight loss and fitness are now being framed as tools of discrimination. Even Fox News contributors have referenced Michelle Obama’s initiative as a sensible approach to tackling health issues, in stark contrast to the more extreme stances taken by some modern progressive activists. Media’s Role in Shaping Political Narratives The shifting discourse around Let’s Move! highlights a broader trend in political media: the way narratives are selectively reshaped over time. In the early 2010s, conservative media attacked the initiative because it came from a Democratic administration. Now, in an era where extreme positions dominate public discourse, the campaign is being reconsidered as a rational and moderate policy. This pattern is not unique to Let’s Move!. Throughout history, policies once viewed as radical have later been embraced as moderate when compared to newer, more extreme alternatives. Similarly, progressives who once championed Michelle Obama’s campaign now find themselves at odds with segments of the left that view health initiatives as problematic. For figures like Harris Faulkner, a longtime Fox News host, the shifting narrative has been particularly striking. After years of covering political and social debates, she found herself momentarily stunned at the realization that an initiative once criticized as government overreach was now being defended as a sensible approach to public health. Conclusion The evolving perception of Let’s Move! serves as a reminder of how political and media narratives can change over time. What was once framed as an overreach of government power is now seen as a rational stance in the face of new cultural debates. The controversy surrounding Michelle Obama’s initiative illustrates how political opinions are often shaped by context rather than policy alone. Ultimately, the debate over Let’s Move!—and the broader discussion about health, personal freedom, and government responsibility—continues to evolve. Whether viewed as an overreach or a pragmatic solution, the campaign remains a significant chapter in the discussion of public health policy in America.

Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” Initiative: From Controversy to Conservative Praise Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! campaign, launched in 2010, was one of the most ambitious public health initiatives of its time. …

Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” Initiative: From Controversy to Conservative Praise Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! campaign, launched in 2010, was one of the most ambitious public health initiatives of its time. Designed to combat childhood obesity, the campaign aimed to promote healthier eating habits, increase physical activity, and improve nutrition education in schools. However, the initiative quickly became a lightning rod for criticism, particularly from conservative circles that framed it as an example of government overreach. Interestingly, more than a decade later, Let’s Move! has undergone a surprising transformation in the media narrative, with some of its fiercest former critics now citing it as an example of common-sense public health policy. The Initial Controversy At its core, Let’s Move! sought to address a real and growing public health crisis. Childhood obesity rates in the U.S. had reached alarming levels, with researchers warning of long-term consequences such as increased risks of diabetes, heart disease, and other health complications. The campaign advocated for schools to serve healthier meals with reduced sugar, fat, and sodium while encouraging children to engage in more physical activity. Barack Can’t Convince His Wife She Has To Do Her Duty?”: The Internet Is Firing Back After A Fox News Host Questioned Why Michelle Obama Won’t Attend Trump’s Inauguration Despite the initiative’s noble goals, conservative media and political figures quickly took issue with its approach. Critics argued that Let’s Move! represented an unnecessary government intrusion into personal choices. Prominent figures on Fox News and other right-leaning outlets ridiculed the campaign, with commentators like Glenn Beck and Sean Hannity warning that it was a step toward excessive regulation of Americans’ diets. A major point of contention was the implementation of new federal school lunch guidelines. While the updated meals were designed to be healthier, many students found them unappetizing, leading to complaints about bland food and small portions. Social media became flooded with images of unappetizing school lunches, fueling accusations that the program was ineffective and wasteful. The backlash was intense, with conservatives portraying the initiative as an example of government overreach into everyday life. The Surprising Shift in Perspective More than a decade later, the narrative surrounding Let’s Move! has shifted dramatically. In a surprising twist, the very media outlets that once decried the initiative are now using it as an example of responsible public health policy. The reason? The rise of the fat positivity movement, a cultural force that challenges traditional views on weight and health. Some progressive activists now argue that society’s emphasis on fitness and dieting is rooted in systemic discrimination. Events like “Fat Con,” a conference in Philadelphia promoting fat positivity, have framed weight loss efforts as a form of oppression. These new perspectives have led to a backlash against conventional health initiatives, including those that promote exercise and balanced eating. Fox News Hosts Praise Michelle Obama’s ‘Amazing’ DNC Speech – Newsweek This has created an ironic moment where figures on the right, who once criticized Let’s Move!, now point to it as a reasonable middle ground. Conservative media figures, including those on Outnumbered and Gutfeld!, have expressed disbelief that weight loss and fitness are now being framed as tools of discrimination. Even Fox News contributors have referenced Michelle Obama’s initiative as a sensible approach to tackling health issues, in stark contrast to the more extreme stances taken by some modern progressive activists. Media’s Role in Shaping Political Narratives The shifting discourse around Let’s Move! highlights a broader trend in political media: the way narratives are selectively reshaped over time. In the early 2010s, conservative media attacked the initiative because it came from a Democratic administration. Now, in an era where extreme positions dominate public discourse, the campaign is being reconsidered as a rational and moderate policy. This pattern is not unique to Let’s Move!. Throughout history, policies once viewed as radical have later been embraced as moderate when compared to newer, more extreme alternatives. Similarly, progressives who once championed Michelle Obama’s campaign now find themselves at odds with segments of the left that view health initiatives as problematic. For figures like Harris Faulkner, a longtime Fox News host, the shifting narrative has been particularly striking. After years of covering political and social debates, she found herself momentarily stunned at the realization that an initiative once criticized as government overreach was now being defended as a sensible approach to public health. Conclusion The evolving perception of Let’s Move! serves as a reminder of how political and media narratives can change over time. What was once framed as an overreach of government power is now seen as a rational stance in the face of new cultural debates. The controversy surrounding Michelle Obama’s initiative illustrates how political opinions are often shaped by context rather than policy alone. Ultimately, the debate over Let’s Move!—and the broader discussion about health, personal freedom, and government responsibility—continues to evolve. Whether viewed as an overreach or a pragmatic solution, the campaign remains a significant chapter in the discussion of public health policy in America. Read More