After Rory McIlroy changed his stance on LIV Golf earlier this year, confirming that LIV Golfers should return to the PGA Tour without any problems, rumors have emerged that the Northern Irishman could potentially leave the PGA Tour and join LIV Golf. Several well-known names in the golf world have pointed out that McIlroy’s statements suggest he might follow a path similar to his colleagues.
However, such a decision would be shocking, considering everything Rory has said about LIV Golf and the stance he has maintained since the Tour’s inception. Nevertheless, some of his colleagues have criticized LIV Golf, and some of them have even joined the Tour.
Rory McIlroy responded to these rumors during the Arnold Palmer Invitational. The Northern Irishman emphasized that joining LIV Golf is not a definite path for him. He stated that he is a traditionalist who feels best when he has the opportunity to compete in tournaments that have featured golf stars, including those who are still competing. McIlroy respects the tradition and history of this competition. Many consider McIlroy, alongside Woods, as a key figure in this Tour, making it highly unlikely for him to make such a bizarre move.
“It’s not for me. I’m too much of a traditionalist. I love winning golf tournaments and looking at the trophy and seeing that Sam Sneed won this trophy or Ben Hogan, Gene Sarazen, Jack Nichalus, 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: ‘What can we do to all come back together and move forward and be a little more cohesive then I would be for that,”-Rory McIlroy told ESPN.
Rory is one of the individuals frustrated by the current happenings in the golf scene and hopes that the future will bring more positive stories. The Northern Irishman wants to see golf united. He desires to play with the best and achieve success. Given the current situation, McIlroy doesn’t have many reasons for optimism. The merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf seems distant, considering the negotiations have been going on for a long time. It’s a frustrating situation for everyone. Uncertainty is what kills hope, but it seems that the only option is to be patient.
“If we were to all put our heads together and be like: ‘What can we do to all come back together and move forward and be a little more cohesive then I would be for that,” he continued.
Rory McIlroy’s stance in June 2023: You’d rather have PIF as a partner
Rory McIlroy reacted positively in June last year when rumors about a merger between the PGA Tour and PIF surfaced. Although he had a slightly different stance towards LIV Golfers back then, for whom he didn’t have particular respect, McIlroy emphasized that the merger is a brilliant idea and the best option for the PGA Tour. PIF (Public Investment Fund) is a great investor that could help the PGA Tour move in the right direction. Let’s recall Rory’s statement from back then;
“Whether you like it or not, the PIF are going to keep spending money in golf… at least the PGA Tour now controls how that money is spent.
One of the biggest sovereign wealth funds in the world, would you rather have them as a partner or an enemy? At the end of the day, money talks and you’d rather have them as a partner.”- McIlroy said.
Rory McIlroy© Oisin Keniry / Getty Images Sport
Rory McIlroy believes that the possible merger between the PGA Tour and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) could be good for professional golf in the long term. He thinks it would bring unity to the sport and secure its financial future.
Rory emphasized this last year. His optimism has always been his strength. Aware that the PGA Tour is losing strength and that LIV Golf is gaining momentum, McIlroy realized that money plays a crucial role.
While stressing mixed feelings, McIlroy admitted that he doesn’t fully understand all the details and complexities of the situation, as there are still many uncertainties that need to be addressed.
In less than a year, a lot has changed. The PGA Tour has gained a new investor: SSG, and that is one of the reasons why many believe that a merger is no longer necessary for the PGA Tour. SSG is ready to invest a huge amount of money in this Tour and help them win the battle they’ve been fighting with LIV Golf for two years.
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