Rory McIlroy Addresses LIV Golf Rumors at PGA Tour Event
Renowned golfer Rory McIlroy clarifies his stance on the LIV Golf rumors, reaffirming his loyalty to the PGA Tour. While addressing the ongoing divide in professional golf, McIlroy emphasizes the need for sustainability in the game.
Golf Superstar Rory McIlroy Dismisses LIV Golf Signing Rumors
Rory McIlroy, the renowned professional golfer, has firmly denied reports that he is close to accepting an offer to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit. In a statement to Golf Channel’s Todd Lewis at the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage event on Tuesday, McIlroy shut down a City A.M. report claiming he would receive an $850 million contract and a 2% equity stake to leave the PGA Tour.
McIlroy Reaffirms Commitment to PGA Tour
McIlroy, a 24-time PGA Tour winner, stated that he intends to play on the PGA Tour for the remainder of his career. “I honestly don’t know how these things get started,” he said. “I’ve never been offered a number from LIV, and I’ve never contemplated going to LIV. Again, I think I’ve made it clear over the past two years that I don’t think it’s something for me.”
The Northern Irishman has been a vocal supporter of the PGA Tour, serving as a de facto spokesperson for the organization amid the ongoing divide in men’s professional golf. He has repeatedly pledged his loyalty to the PGA Tour, even expressing feeling like a “sacrificial lamb” when the June 6 framework agreement between the PGA Tour and the Saudi Arabian PIF was first announced.
Acknowledging Other Players’ Conversations with LIV Golf
Despite his firm stance, McIlroy acknowledged that other players may have had conversations with LIV Golf and received offers. “Guys need to keep an open mind,” he said. “I’m sure there’s been players that are still on the PGA Tour that have talked to the guys from LIV and had offers, and whatever.”
Ongoing Negotiations and Recent Defections
As negotiations continue to stall behind closed doors, McIlroy has stated that the current state of the game is “not sustainable” and that the PGA Tour and LIV Golf must move forward with a finalized deal. Recent major champions, including Jon Rahm, Brooks Koepka, Cam Smith, and Bryson DeChambeau, have all joined the Saudi-backed circuit.
Rory McIlroy will tee it up at Harbour Town Golf Links on Thursday, coming off a T22 finish at the Masters Tournament.
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