Rory McIlroy's quest for a third PGA Championship hit a literal stumbling block this week, as a stubborn blister on his right pinky toe forced him to cut short his practice round at Aronimink Golf Club. The four-time major champion, known for his explosive power and precision, managed just three full holes on Tuesday before calling it quits on the fourth tee.

McIlroy first revealed the issue last week at the Truist Championship in Quail Hollow, where he finished tied for 19th—a performance that now looks even more impressive given the discomfort. On Monday night, he took matters into his own hands, soaking his foot and completely removing the toenail to better treat the blister. But as Tuesday's practice round showed, the road to recovery isn't quite smooth yet.

Golf Channel's Kira K. Dixon caught up with McIlroy near the clubhouse, where he was seen examining his toe while his team arrived with multiple boxes of shoes—a clear sign they're still searching for the perfect fit. During his abbreviated round, McIlroy was spotted removing his right shoe multiple times on the third and fourth holes. ESPN's Paolo Uggetti even reported that McIlroy tried on someone else's shoe on the fourth tee, explaining that he "wasn't bothered by it while just standing."

For golf fans, this brings back memories of Jon Rahm's unfortunate withdrawal two years ago, when a cut between his left pinky and fourth toes forced him out of the U.S. Open at Pinehurst. While McIlroy's issue appears less severe, it's a reminder of how even the smallest physical ailment can disrupt a player's rhythm at the highest level.

There is a silver lining, however. McIlroy made an early scouting trip to Aronimink two weeks ago during the Cadillac Championship, which he skipped. That reconnaissance mission could prove invaluable if his practice time remains limited this week. For now, all eyes will be on that right pinky toe—and on those boxes of shoes—as McIlroy tries to get comfortable before the year's second major gets underway.