The continuing rift within the golf world has created loads of wild narratives, and one other seemed to be growing this week when PGA Tour loyalist Rory McIlroy publicly suggested buddy and fellow Northern Irishman Tom McKibbin in opposition to going to LIV Golf.
McIlroy and McKibbin hail from the identical city in Northern Eire, and the four-time main winner has served as a little bit of a mentor for McKibbin, who’s simply 22 years previous.
However McKibbin is reportedly planning on becoming a member of LIV Golf, regardless of just lately incomes his PGA Tour card for the 2025 season on the ultimate day of competitors within the DP World Tour.
McIlroy instructed reporters on Wednesday that he has suggested McKibbin in opposition to it.
“I said to him, ‘If I were in your shoes, I would make a different choice than the one you’re thinking of making,’” McIlroy stated whereas talking with the media on the Dubai Desert Basic, based on NBC Sports activities.
“Working so hard to get your Tour card in the States, to achieve that goal last year was a big achievement. I think what he potentially is sacrificing and giving up with access to majors, potential Ryder Cup spot depending on how he would play … if I were in his position and I had his potential, which I think I have been before, I wouldn’t make that decision.”
McIlroy has been a staunch supporter of the PGA Tour since LIV Golf entered the fray in 2022 and has divided the golf world.
Murmurs of a possible deal to finish the long-running standoff have persevered, however the PGA Tour and Saudi Public Funding Fund, which financially backs LIV Golf, have but to return to an settlement on a merger.
McKibbin has not addressed the LIV rumors, and McIlroy stated that he wouldn’t get in the way in which if the younger golfer wished to affix the rival golf league.
“Personally, for me, it would be a little disappointing if it were to happen but again, I made it perfectly clear: I’m not going to stand in your way if you need to make the decision you feel like you need to make for yourself. But at the same time, I feel like he’s giving up a lot to not really benefit that much,” McIlroy stated.
