Rory McIlroy's Reflection on His Initial Judgements of LIV Golf Players
Rory McIlroy regrets being overly critical of fellow players who joined LIV Golf, acknowledging his past misjudgment
Rory McIlroy acknowledged that he had been overly critical of the initial golfers who decided to leave the PGA Tour and join LIV Golf. Despite his strong opposition to the Saudi-backed breakaway tour, the Northern Irishman expressed regret for being too judgmental and stated that he would rather retire than participate in its circuit.
Four-time major champion McIlroy and Tiger Woods both criticized players who gave up their PGA Tour status to compete for guaranteed prize money on the new series as legal disputes unfolded between the two tours. However, the disputes were resolved when the PGA Tour and LIV Golf shockingly announced their reconciliation last June.
The two sides are still working on finalizing the proposed framework for joining forces after failing to reach an agreement by the initial December 31 deadline. In a memo sent Sunday, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan informed players that negotiations have made "meaningful progress." World No. 2 McIlroy, who resigned from the PGA Tour policy board in November, acknowledged that LIV Golf is now part of the sport and expressed regret for being judgmental of the first players to join the breakaway tour.
During an interview on the Stick to Football podcast, hosted by former Manchester United footballer Gary Neville, McIlroy admitted that he now understands that not everyone is in the same position as he or Tiger Woods. Reflecting on his own past mistake, he acknowledged that all professional athletes aim to make a living from playing sports, and he has learned not to judge others for their choices.
McIlroy fine with smart Rahms departure
McIroy expressed no concern about Jon Rahm leaving the PGA Tour, as it marked a significant achievement for LIV Golf with the announcement of the Spanish world No. 3 signing a three-year, $300 million deal, as reported by ESPN.
The merger justified the goals of LIV, making it easier for players like Rahm to transition. "Jon Rahm hasn't faced the backlash that the initial players did for switching teams. It's a savvy business decision, it's seizing an opportunity. I believe he understands that things will eventually align again."
"If that is what he wants to do and he thinks thats the right decision for him and his family, then who am I to say any different at this point?"
Rahm and McIlroy chat at the 2021 Scottish Open.
Andrew Redington/Getty Images
McIlroy had a negative opinion about the players who he believed spoke negatively about their previous tours when they joined LIV Golf. "We all started on the European Tour and PGA Tour, and that has helped us become who we are and gain recognition," McIlroy stated.
After playing for 15 or 20 years, some people switch to LIV and start criticizing their past. This is concerning because their current position is a result of their previous experiences. It's not a good look to talk badly about where you started. I don't have a problem with people chasing money and trying something new, but they shouldn't disrespect their origins.
McIlroy added that he had "never" had an offer to join LIV Golf.
"Just didnt engage. At this point, Ive pretty much set my stall out," the 34-year-old said.
The IPL of golf
Highlighting the "exposed flaws" in the current golf system, including the challenge of ensuring PGA Tour sponsors of the top players' participation, McIlroy expressed his interest in joining a tour structured like cricket's Indian Premier League (IPL).
McIlroy expressed his vision for LIV, stating that he envisions it becoming the golf equivalent of the IPL. The concept involves a two-month period on the calendar, with four weeks in May and four weeks in November dedicated to a team-oriented format, providing a unique and distinct experience.
"If they were to do something like that Id be, Yeah, that sounds like fun, because you are at least working within the ecosystem."
Tiger Woods from the United States starts his swing on the second hole of the Hero World Challenge PGA Tour at Albany Golf Club in New Providence, Bahamas on Sunday, December 3, 2023. (Photo credit: Fernando Llano/AP)
Tiger Woods' return at the Hero World Challenge shows that he is not yet ready to retire. Despite the $250 million in prize money from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund for the LIV Golf season and the significant signing fees, McIlroy believes that the funds should be invested in grassroots golf instead.
I've come to realize that having people or a sovereign wealth fund willing to invest money in your sport is ultimately positive. However, it's important to ensure that the money is spent in a way that benefits the game. For example, instead of giving someone $100 million, it would be more beneficial to invest $50 million in a grassroots program for organizations like the R&A or the USGA, which would have a more significant impact.
Mickelson: Its time for me and others to let go of our hostilities
Instead of simply trying to buy talent, a better way to spend the money would be to invest in genuinely growing the game.
Phil Mickelson, one of the initial players to join LIV Golf, appreciated McIlroy's remarks, recognizing that they may not have been easy to make. The six-time major champion received intense criticism for his choice to join the breakaway tour but sees Rahm's recent entry as a potential way to unite both factions.
Mickelson in action at LIV Golf Invitational - Singapore in April 2023.
Suhaimi Abdullah/Getty Images/File
"Lets not use this as an opportunity to pile on," Mickelson said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, responding to quotes posted from McIlroys podcast interview.
"It's time for me and others to release our hostilities and strive for a positive future. Until an agreement is reached, both sides will continue with business as usual, but hopefully without the unnecessary animosity."
The inaugural LIV Golf tournament of the season will begin on February 2 at LIV Golf Mayakoba in Mexico.
