Rory McIlroy, one of the most influential figures in golf, has recently made headlines with his declarations regarding LIV Golf. Contrary to rumors circulating on social media, McIlroy has denied any intention of joining LIV Golf, even for the rumored $850 million.
In an interview with Golf Channel´s Todd Lewis of, Rory McIlroy said:
“I honestly don’t know how these things get started, I’ve never been offered a number or potential deal from LIV and I’ve never contemplated going to LIV. I think I’ve made it clear over the past two years that I don’t think it’s something for me.”
Exclusive: Rory McIlroy tells @ToddLewisGC that LIV Golf rumors are false and, "I will play the PGA Tour for the rest of my career." Tune into Golf Today at 5 p.m. EDT for more. pic.twitter.com/PIPAWMIWGh
— Golf Central (@GolfCentral) April 16, 2024
These recent words bring to mind what Rory McIlroy said in an interview for ESPN in early March 2024:
“It’s not for me,” he said. “I’m too much of a traditionalist. I love winning golf tournaments and looking at the trophy and seeing that Sam Snead won this trophy or Ben Hogan or Gene Sarazen or Jack Nicklaus or Gary Player, Tiger Woods or Nick Faldo, whoever it is, the people that came before me.”
“That to me is a big deal in our game. If we were to all put our heads together and be like, ‘Okay, what can we do to all come back together and move forward and be a little more cohesive?’ Then I would sort of be for that,” he added.
No one was more vehemently against LIV Golf than Rory McIlroy. No one defended the PGA Tour more aggressively.
From afar, his stance seems to have softened. Speculation ensued.
At Bay Hill Weds I asked him directly what consideration he’s given to joining LIV:“It’s not for me.” pic.twitter.com/1rQiq6X94g
— Marty Smith (@MartySmithESPN) March 7, 2024
Rory McIlroy’s decision to stay with the PGA Tour is a significant development in the ongoing saga between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour. His loyalty to the PGA Tour, in his own words, “I will play the PGA Tour for the rest of my career” is a testament to the tour’s enduring appeal and a blow to LIV Golf’s attempts to change the golfing landscape. However, it’s worth noting that McIlroy’s decision mirrors Jon Rahm’s initial stance before he eventually joined LIV Golf.”
This firm stance has led to speculation about the future of LIV Golf and its ongoing battle with the PGA Tour. Despite the big-name stars that LIV has managed to sign, the tour has struggled to elevate interest among fans. TV ratings remain low and crowds at LIV events are sparse.
Rory McIlroy and The Echoes of Jon Rahm’s Case
Rory McIlroy‘s recent statements seem as strong as they may appear in the current circumstances. However, the golf world can only draw parallels with others who have made similar statements in the past.
Declarations can be as powerful as the swing of a club. Jon Rahm, a prominent figure in the sport, once declared that LIV Golf was “not for him”. This statement echoed through the golfing community, creating ripples of speculation and discussion. However, in a surprising turn of events, Rahm later joined the LIV Tour, contradicting his earlier stance. This move sparked a war between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour, with players choosing sides and the golfing world watching in anticipation.
The LIV Tour has managed to attract some of the biggest names in golf, including Bryson DeChambeau, Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, and Dustin Johnson. These players’ decisions to join LIV have been seen as significant blows to the PGA Tour. However, maybe not all players have been swayed by the allure of LIV Golf.