Jack Nicklaus was surprised world No. 2 Rory McIlroy did not contact him about bypassing this year's Memorial, but won't throw him under the bus.

The Northern Irishman has notably reduced his playing schedule this year, missing out on the likes of the Memorial Tournament in order to prioritize the national events

Jack Nicklaus praised Rory McIlroy's Masters win but noted mistakes, calling it a relief despite disappointment over the PGA Tour pro skipping the Memorial.