McIlroy Reflects on LIV Golf’s Future

In Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, Rory McIlroy candidly stated on Tuesday that he was “wrong” and surprisingly “glad” about the shifts with LIV Golf, especially with the PGA Championship approaching at Aronimink.

Initially, McIlroy firmly believed that the PGA Tour should have engaged with LIV when it first emerged four years ago, backed by significant funding from the Saudi Public Investment Fund to attract players from the PGA Tour.

When questioned about his reaction to the news that Saudi Arabia would cease funding LIV after the 2026 season, McIlroy acknowledged his errors in judgment.

“I’m glad I was wrong. It’s okay to own up to mistakes, and that was definitely me being mistaken,” he said.

Having recently clinched his second consecutive Masters title in April, McIlroy reflected on concerns that the Saudi investment in LIV might not last. “I think everyone knows the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East affects decisions there. When finances are tied to global politics, it becomes quite complicated,” he noted.

He went on to explain, “Certainly, their priorities shifted, putting LIV in a risky position. However, I think many, including myself, sensed this outcome well before the LIV players did. I even heard whispers about it back in March or April.” McIlroy shared that he’s kept tabs on conversations from friends involved in LIV, including his buddy Ricky McCormick, who caddies for Tom McKibbin. He had recently asked Ricky for any insights, and the response was that everything seemed stable.

“Honestly, it felt like the rug got pulled from underneath us. It was unexpected,” McIlroy added, highlighting the prevailing uncertainty surrounding the situation.

When asked if LIV could find a way to continue after 2026, McIlroy replied, “I really don’t know. I’m not clear on their plans. I’ve read something about potential sponsorships, but I’m uncertain about the specifics of those contracts.” He concluded with some thoughts about the future of the golf schedule, admitting, “If we can get a plan together for next year, it sounds like it might look quite different from what we’ve seen in the last four years.”