Rory McIlroy Questions LIV Golfers' Desire to Return to PGA Tour

Rory McIlroy has questioned the motivation of golfers who may not wish to return to the PGA Tour. He stated that if players are given the option to come back to traditional tours and do not want to, "I think that says something about you." This comes amid uncertainty about the future of LIV Golf.

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced last month that it will stop funding LIV Golf after the 2026 season. The breakaway golf league is now seeking new investors to ensure its survival.

McIlroy made these comments after a strong second-round 67 at the Truist Championship on Friday. He was asked about the LIV situation and how players might rejoin established golf tours.

He acknowledged that the desire to return is a key question. McIlroy noted that some players have expressed their views recently. He suggested that if LIV Golf continues and players have the chance to play on traditional tours again, it would be beneficial for the PGA Tour and the DP World Tour.

McIlroy believes that PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp has indicated openness to anything that strengthens the tours. He described this approach as good business practice. However, he also recognized that there are many hurdles to overcome.

Players on LIV Golf are currently under contract. If LIV manages to continue and organize a schedule for next year, it seems likely that these players will continue to play most of their golf on LIV, regardless of its future form.

McIlroy, who was initially a strong critic of LIV Golf when it launched in 2022, has since softened his stance. He admitted that he may have been too quick to judge players who joined LIV, seeing it only from his own perspective.

He stated he would not judge anyone for not wanting to play on the PGA Tour. McIlroy added that if a player chooses to play on the DP World Tour, which is his home tour, it would strengthen it, and he would be pleased about that. However, he believes that to be the most competitive golfer, playing on the traditional tours is the place to be.

McIlroy also commented on LIV Golf's hopes of continuing under different financial backing. He said that LIV has never been for him. He acknowledged that LIV Golf might not disappear and will likely seek alternative investment.

He found it significant that one of the world's wealthiest sovereign wealth funds considers LIV too expensive. McIlroy suggested this fact alone says a lot about the league's financial situation.

Sky Sports has learned that several LIV Golf players have inquired with both the DP World Tour and the PGA Tour about the possibility of being reinstated. This indicates a potential desire among some LIV players to return to the traditional tours.

Bryson DeChambeau, a prominent LIV Golf player, recently stated that he would focus on his YouTube channel if LIV Golf fails. He expressed a desire to significantly grow his channel and potentially do voiceovers in different languages.

DeChambeau also mentioned wanting to play in tournaments that welcome him. He indicated that his potential return to the PGA Tour depends on the current membership's desire for him to come back, rather than solely on the decisions of top executives.

Jon Rahm, whose LIV Golf contract extends beyond this season, commented on the league's future. He stated that the future of LIV is a question for the business side. Rahm expressed that he and other players have enjoyed their time on LIV and want to continue competing together.

He believes that only time will tell what happens next. Rahm noted that LIV CEO Scott O'Neil and his team have significant work ahead but are experienced in the field, which is why they were chosen for their roles.