Sky Sports commentator Nick Dougherty has revealed that Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth are not close friends, despite mutual respect. Speaking during coverage of the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club, Dougherty noted that the two players did not practise together ahead of the tournament, with small 'cliques' forming among players.
Dougherty said: 'Interesting dynamic here, there's never necessarily been a lot of love lost between Spieth and McIlroy. Respect but certainly not best friends out there on tour. They didn't spend a lot of time playing practice rounds together.' Fellow commentator Rich Beem added that players often form small groups, comparing it to high school.
The discussion also touched on Jon Rahm, who was paired with McIlroy and Spieth. Dougherty highlighted the Ryder Cup alliance between McIlroy and Rahm, but noted that McIlroy had previously urged Rahm to pay his fines and move on from LIV Golf disputes. Rahm's fines, reportedly around £2.21 million, have now been paid, securing his eligibility for the 2027 Ryder Cup.
McIlroy told the Golf Channel last week: 'I think it's good that we have it all behind us. I think as a European Ryder Cup player, we all know that having Jon on the team is better than not having him on the team.'
