Rory McIlroy has revealed that Donald Trump told him he is “on the PGA Tour’s side” in the ongoing dispute with LIV Golf. The Northern Irishman played 18 holes with the US president before his inauguration and discussed the rift that has divided the sport.
McIlroy, speaking ahead of the Genesis Invitational, said Trump expressed his dislike for LIV Golf’s 54-hole format, which includes a shotgun start and team elements. Despite hosting LIV events at his courses, Trump reportedly told McIlroy: “It doesn’t mean that I like it.”
The four-time major winner also highlighted Trump’s potential influence in brokering a deal between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which backs LIV. McIlroy noted Trump’s direct access to PIF governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan’s boss, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
McIlroy, who initially opposed LIV Golf, has softened his stance, calling for reunification. He acknowledged that LIV’s emergence led to increased prize funds, such as the $20 million on offer at this week’s event. However, he expressed hope that he would not need to play in LIV events himself.
