Rory McIlroy has admitted to feeling a touch of jealousy towards world number one Scottie Scheffler, praising the American's ability to block out distractions and maintain focus. Speaking to Fried Egg Golf, the Northern Irishman reflected on how Scheffler's simple lifestyle has contributed to his sustained success at the top of the sport.
“He doesn't have many distractions. He lives a relatively simple life where he could have access to everything and everyone in the world if he wanted it, but he chooses not to go that way. I think that works in his favour,” McIlroy said. The 36-year-old, who has often pursued opportunities off the course, admitted: “I have quite a curious mind, so I do go and chase those, but then sometimes I do look at Scottie and be like, maybe I wish I didn't have so much going on.”
McIlroy also addressed his retirement plans, reiterating a long-held view that he does not want to be a touring professional past the age of 46. “I have the incredible privilege of being in three of the four majors until I'm whatever age, however long I want to play, so if those become the highlight of my golfing year, I will be so okay with that,” he said. He added: “I don't want to be a touring professional golfer for the rest of my life. I want to do other things. I want to see the world, and I don't want to see the world just through the lens of golf courses and hotels.”
McIlroy is still seeking his first win of the 2026 season, having come close at the Genesis Invitational where he finished one shot behind Jacob Bridgeman. He withdrew from the Arnold Palmer Invitational due to injury, raising questions about his fitness for the Masters in April.
