Kevin Kisner has dismissed Rory McIlroy's stated reason for competing at the DP World Indian Championship, claiming the Northern Irishman is primarily motivated by a large payday. McIlroy is reported to be earning £7.5 million for his participation, having signed a multi-year deal to become Global Ambassador for UAE logistics company DP World.
McIlroy's 'grow the game' claim under fire
The 37-year-old is one of several prominent players, including Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose, promoting the tournament in India. McIlroy suggested he hoped to "grow the game" before teeing off at the event, and upon confirming his partnership on social media, he said: "That's why I'm proud to announce I'm joining DP World as Global Golf Ambassador. Excited to push the boundaries of performance together, backed by world-leading smart end-to-end logistics."
US Ryder Cup vice-captain Kisner was quick to criticise McIlroy's comments, offering a blunt assessment on the Fore Play Podcast.
Kisner's blunt response
"That is such a dog s*** comment, but I guess for the right price we could all say that comment," Kisner said. "He doesn't want to globally expand in India; he wants to get his 10 million bucks and go play in India.
"I know there are a pile of guys who got paid for that event. How else would you get that event in India with eight billion people in the middle of the city? And Rory's not even hitting a driver this week. You think he wants to go play a tournament where he can't use his No. 1 weapon? So give me a break."
Kisner added: "They always seem to say the right things while they're over there. As part of your appearance fee, here's your script for altruism, and you need to mention these four lines in whatever interview you do throughout the week. Which is totally fine, I'd do it too, and all of us on this podcast would.
"I just find it hilarious when you can pop up and play an event where Rory McIlroy can't hit his driver and all those guys show up, and nobody's like, 'All right, this is stupid', whenever they can go play the sickest course in the world, and none of them show up. It's just very odd to me."
McIlroy's struggles in Delhi
McIlroy is playing at the Delhi Golf Club for the second year in succession and receiving an appearance fee. He was required to promote the tournament and to attend a Diwali with the Stars dinner on Friday evening.
McIlroy sits 10 shots back of the lead in Delhi, with play suspended due to darkness before his round finished on day three. The European star dropped four shots in four holes to drop down the standings. McIlroy had three holes left to salvage his round when play was halted and finds himself with a share of 40th place. It was the second day in a row that play ended early, with players finishing up their second-round action early on Saturday.
