Professional golfer Rory McIlroy has recently faced criticism for adjusting his stance on the potential penalties for LIV Golf defectors returning to the PGA Tour. The Northern Irishman, known for his previous outspoken criticism of those who departed to join LIV Golf, has come under fire for changing his viewpoint on the matter.
Previously, McIlroy had been vocal in his opposition to players defecting to LIV Golf and had expressed his belief that any potential merger should not simply allow LIV Golf defectors to seamlessly return to the PGA Tour. However, his stance appeared to soften after Jon Rahm’s substantial £450 million move to LIV Golf, leading McIlroy to alter his perspective at the end of last year.
In a recent statement, McIlroy elaborated on his change of stance, expressing that he no longer believed that players should face punishment if they desire to return to the PGA Tour from LIV Golf. Despite this adjustment, he remains committed to seeing an end to the bitter civil war in golf and advocates for a scenario in which the world’s elite players compete against each other on a more frequent basis.
McIlroy’s revised remarks have sparked a reaction on social media, particularly from supporters of LIV Golf. Some have expressed skepticism regarding the sincerity of his shift in position, denouncing it as merely a public relations move. Critics have also questioned the consistency of McIlroy’s statements, with some suggesting that his opinions lack firmness and credibility.
As of now, LIV Golf has yet to secure a major TV deal in the UK or the US. However, a deal has been secured in Spain for the subscription platform Movistar Plus+ to broadcast all tournaments for the next two seasons. In the UK, followers have the option to watch LIV Golf on its YouTube channel or by downloading the LIV Golf Plus app.