In a surprising turn of events at the Genesis Scottish Open, Rory McIlroy displayed his remarkable golfing skills with a spectacular 6-under 64 round. However, it was his outspoken comments about LIV Golf, made after his round, that truly raised eyebrows. McIlroy’s unfiltered thoughts about the Saudi-backed circuit shed light on his deep disapproval of the organization.
Upon being questioned about LIV Golf during an interview with Golf Channel’s Rex Hoggard, McIlroy did not mince words. Expressing his genuine sentiments, the Northern Irish golfer confessed, “If LIV Golf was the last place to play golf on Earth, I would retire. That’s how I feel about it. I’d play the majors, but I’d be pretty comfortable [with that].” McIlroy’s unequivocal disapproval resonated strongly with fans and industry insiders alike.
During the Senate hearings held on July 11, the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations made public a 276-page document revealing significant information related to the PGA’s partnership with the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF). Within this document, LIV Golf presented proposals that involved McIlroy teaming up with the likes of Tiger Woods and participating in a minimum of ten LIV Golf events. One notable suggestion even included PIF’s governor, Yasir al-Rumayyan, potentially becoming a member of Augusta National.
Further details emerged from the document, highlighting a meeting between McIlroy and Al-Rumayyan in late 2022. Described as a cordial and constructive exchange, the meeting revealed Al-Rumayyan’s frustration with the PGA’s lack of cooperation. While the details surrounding the meeting were not unveiled, it seems that McIlroy’s stance on LIV Golf was firmly established even before the recent controversy unfolded.
Despite LIV Golf’s efforts to entice renowned golfers, McIlroy has consistently voiced his opposition to the Saudi-backed circuit, opting to remain loyal to the PGA Tour. Soon after the PGA Tour’s deal with PIF was announced on June 6, McIlroy publicly expressed his feeling of being a “sacrificial lamb.” His disappointment stemmed from the perceived lack of transparency from PGA Tour leadership. McIlroy’s candid remarks resonated with fellow golfers, including Jordan Spieth and Xander Schauffele, who also felt blindsided by the news.
Rory McIlroy’s scathing remarks about LIV Golf following his superb performance at the Genesis Scottish Open have garnered significant attention. Despite proposals involving his participation in the Saudi-backed circuit, McIlroy’s loyalty to the PGA Tour remains steadfast. His unfiltered comments shed light on the complexities surrounding the controversial relationship between golf’s elite players and emerging circuits like LIV Golf. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the sport’s governing bodies will address the concerns raised by McIlroy and others.
The Business Press 