The United States Ryder Cup team has sparked controversy after an official T-shirt went on sale featuring a silhouette that closely resembles European star Rory McIlroy. The navy Ralph Lauren shirt, priced at $65 (£48), carries the slogan “USA Ryder Cup 2025” and depicts a golfer performing a follow-through that appears to be the Northern Irishman.
Social media erupted over the gaffe, with many questioning why the US would use an image of a European player on their merchandise. McIlroy, however, shrugged off the incident when asked at Wentworth on Tuesday, jokingly suggesting the silhouette actually looks more like Australian Adam Scott.
The PGA of America has been contacted for comment. McIlroy, fresh from a dramatic victory at the Irish Open, is one of 11 European Ryder Cup players competing in the DP World Tour’s flagship event this week. He also used the occasion to discuss his future schedule, stating he will “play where I want to play” and not be dictated by tour minimums.
“I want to play golf when I want to play golf,” McIlroy said. “I want to play in the locations that I love to go to, I want to play the majors and the Ryder Cup. That’s it.” He added that after 18 years on tour, he is excited by new experiences, such as playing in India for the first time.
