Rory McIlroy is one of the most intriguing figures on the golf scene alongside Tiger Woods, so it’s no surprise that there have been so many rumors since the beginning of his career. The Northern Irishman has attracted huge attention with his performances, mentality, and character. Since then, LIV Golf has emerged on the big stage, and numerous rumors have surfaced, too many to list. Many PGA Tour players have decided to leave this tour and join LIV Golf.
Such actions by former PGA Tour players towards the tour that gave them everything has caused frustration among fans, current and former golfers. McIlroy is one of those who has been most vocal about such moves by his colleagues, emphasizing that they are chasing money without regard for the tradition and history of the PGA Tour.
However, a few months ago, the 34-year-old golfer began to change his views when it came to LIV Golf. He confirmed that it’s time to forget about this conflict and extend a warm welcome to LIV Golfers on the PGA Tour.
In his remarks before the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am in California, Rory McIlroy spoke about the choices that players have to make regarding LIV Golf. He emphasized that players have the freedom to choose whether to join LIV Golf or remain on the PGA Tour. McIlroy believes that players who still have eligibility on the PGA Tour should be allowed to return and compete if they wish to do so. He expressed his view that it would be unfair to penalize players for their decisions and that there should not be disciplinary measures in place.
Rory McIlroy© Warren Little/Getty Images Sport
The speculation sparked by Rory McIlroy’s comments immediately fueled rumors that he might shock the world by joining LIV Golf. The figures mentioned regarding the departure of some stars to LIV Golf confused many. LIV Golf executives are willing to offer incredible sums when they are determined to sign someone. The best example of this is Jon Rahm, who, according to media reports, received $300 million for a little over three years of contract.
Rumors emerged that McIlroy could even receive $850 million and a 2% equity share in LIV Golf! If these rumors are true, it speaks volumes about how far LIV’s leaders are willing to go to engage the best.
However, Rory McIlroy has put a stop to all speculation by confirming that these are false rumors and that he has no intention of continuing his career there. His stance has remained consistent since the inception of LIV Golf: “I want to stay on the PGA Tour!”
“I honestly don’t know how these things get started. I’ve never been offered a number from LIV, I’ve never contemplated going to LIV, and I think I’ve made it clear over the past two years is that it’s not something for me.”-he told Golf Channel, as quoted by Irish Golfer!
Rory McIlroy explains his views about LIV Golf
In his conversation with Lewis, McIlroy explained that he doesn’t pass judgment on those who have chosen to play elsewhere. He expressed his realization over the past two years that individuals have the autonomy to make decisions based on what they believe is best for themselves, and it’s not his place to judge them for it.
However, he personally sees his future on the PGA Tour and has always been committed to it.
Rory McIlroy believes that everyone should have an opinion similar to his, specifically, to be open-minded. He’s aware that for the past two years, some have been associated with LIV Golf, although that’s far from reality. He emphasized that while some PGA Tour players have surely received offers and talked with LIV Golf officials, he has never been involved in such negotiations.
Rory isn’t happy about having to react to these rumors and being involved in them for a long time. McIlroy isn’t content with the situation on the golf scene, aware that things could change in the future. The 34-year-old golfer reaffirmed his focus on the future and the challenges that lie ahead, primarily the PGA Tour event next week. McIlroy once again confirmed his intention to be part of this Tour until the end of his career.
Considering that many golfers have shared similar views, firmly believing they will stay on the PGA Tour only to later change their decisions, some are still not certain about McIlroy’s statements. His departure would certainly be one of the biggest blows for PGA Tour officials. However, PGA Tour leaders are confident that McIlroy will remain part of this story, ready to achieve great results in the future.
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