While the golfing world is focused on the drama unfolding at The Masters, whispers of a seismic shift is echoing in the shadows. Rory McIlroy, the outspoken critic of LIV Golf, may be on the brink of joining the Saudi-backed challenger circuit.
Sources close to the action have confided to City A.M. in American that a deal is imminent. LIV Golf honchos have reportedly dangled a staggering $850 million carrot in front of the world No. 2, along with a tantalizing two percent equity stake in the enterprise. If the ink dries after the Masters, this blockbuster signing would undoubtedly be LIV Golf’s biggest splash to date.
Verification of these claims has proven elusive. Both McIlroy’s camp and LIV Golf have remained tight-lipped despite repeated inquiries. The logistics of integrating McIlroy into the current league structure mid-season also raise eyebrows; with all 13 teams already accounted for, the Northern Irishman would likely snatch one of the precious wildcard slots. Furthermore, McIlroy is set to tee off at the PGA Tour’s RBC Heritage next week.
Yet, McIlroy’s once-fierce opposition to LIV Golf has softened notably in recent months. Once the face of PGA Tour loyalty when the $2 billion venture surfaced in 2022, McIlroy now seems to be reconsidering his stance. Even his former agent, Andrew “Chubby” Chandler, has hinted at the possibility, suggesting a significant shift in McIlroy’s perspective and perhaps an inclination towards leaving the PGA Tour behind.
