CBS Sports reporter Amanda Balionis has stirred the pot with a surprising U.S. Open prediction, conspicuously overlooking Rory McIlroy as a top contender, leaving golf fans scratching their heads and sparking a wave of reactions. With the tournament kicking off Thursday at Oakmont Country Club, Balionis’ decision to back Sam Burns over the four-time major winner has raised eyebrows, especially given McIlroy’s recent form and history at the event. The move, dubbed “weird” by fans on social media, hints at a possible shift in narrative as the sport gears up for one of its biggest tests.

Balionis, fresh off covering the Canadian Open, shared her pick on Instagram, praising Burns’ recent playoff performance despite his loss to Ryan Fox. The 28-year-old American, who posted an impressive eight-under-par 62 at TPC Toronto, is seen as an outsider with just one top-10 finish in 20 major appearances. Balionis’ choice sidesteps McIlroy, who finished T4 at the Canadian Open and remains a favorite despite his well-documented U.S. Open heartbreak last year. Her decision to ignore the Northern Irishman, a player she’s interviewed extensively, has fueled speculation, especially amid past rumors linking the two professionally and personally.

McIlroy, coming off a T47 at the PGA Championship, has shown resilience, with wins at the Masters and Players Championship this year. His U.S. Open record includes a 2011 victory, and at 36, he’s viewed as a strong candidate to end his decade-long major drought. Yet, Balionis’ focus on Burns—whose best major result was a T9 at Pinehurst in 2024—suggests she’s betting on an underdog narrative. Some fans interpret this as a subtle snub, recalling her past comments praising players like Bryson DeChambeau for media availability, a contrast to McIlroy’s occasional press avoidance.

The golf community is abuzz, with sentiments on platforms like X ranging from surprise to amusement, some calling it a “bold move” while others question her reasoning. Balionis, who’s taking a break from U.S. Open coverage as NBC holds the rights, will return next week at the Travelers Championship, leaving her prediction open to scrutiny. With Burns facing stiff competition from Scottie Scheffler and DeChambeau, and McIlroy hungry for redemption, the U.S. Open promises drama. Is Balionis onto something, or did she overlook a champion in the making? Golf enthusiasts are eager to find out as the tournament unfolds.