Rory McIlroy faced an awkward moment during his pre-Open Championship press conference when questioned about his lack of a knighthood and a reported tax-related 'red flag'. The six-time Major winner, who received an MBE after his 2012 PGA Championship victory, was not included in the King's Honours list despite a stellar 2025 season that saw him win the Masters and the Ryder Cup with Team Europe.
Knighthood Question Triggers Tension
At Royal Troon, a journalist asked McIlroy if his omission from the honours list was due to a 'red flag' attached to his file by tax authorities concerning an investment in a purported tax avoidance scheme. The scheme, launched in 2013, focused on regeneration initiatives in Birmingham, Liverpool, and Sheffield, and involved 183 investors. According to The Telegraph, which reported the claim, neither McIlroy, the British government, nor tax officials responded to requests for comment.
McIlroy replied, 'I have no idea. If that honour were bestowed on me one day, that would be amazing, but yeah, I have no idea.' When pressed on whether he had sought clarification, he curtly said, 'I haven't inquired, no.'
Tax Scheme Details
There is no suggestion McIlroy deliberately sought to avoid tax. The scheme was examined two years after its launch and deemed lawful, though tax officials retained the right to demand payments if conditions changed. The awkward exchange highlighted the sensitivity around McIlroy's financial affairs and his public status.
Focus Shifts to Open Performance
Looking ahead to the Open, McIlroy acknowledged the challenge after finishing T7 at 12-under par at the Genesis Scottish Open. 'It's always good to be back at The Open. For someone from this part of the world, this is obviously a huge championship and brings me back to my childhood... One last opportunity at one of the big four and try to give it all I've got this week,' he said.
