World number two Rory McIlroy has eased concerns over a toe injury, declaring himself "totally fine" ahead of the US PGA Championship at Aronimink. The Masters champion's preparation hit a snag this week when a sore little toe on his right foot forced him to cut short a practice round after just three holes on Tuesday.

"I didn't think I could walk the next six," McIlroy admitted, explaining his decision to take a golf cart from the fourth tee. The 37-year-old initially felt discomfort at last week's Truist Championship at Quail Hollow due to a blister under his toenail. After removing the nail and popping the blister, he hoped the pain would subside—but swelling and bruising persisted.

However, a quick footwear fix has turned things around. McIlroy switched to a "bigger and wider shoe with more cushioning," going half a size up with a wide fit for extra room. "I figured it out and separated the little toe from the other ones," he said after completing nine holes on Wednesday. "A bit of cushion around it definitely helped."

The Northern Irishman reported no pain while hitting shots, though the 7,394-yard Aronimink course presents a challenging, undulating walk. "Walking downhill, whenever your foot slides into the very end of your shoe is when it maybe gives me a bit of bother, but it's totally fine," he said. "A mountain out of a molehill."

For golfers facing similar foot discomfort, McIlroy's experience highlights the importance of proper footwear—especially in the heat of major championship season. Whether it's a blister, bruise, or just tired feet, the right shoes can make all the difference between struggling through a round and staying focused on your game.