Rory McIlroy warned fellow players about the dangers of pursuing “a lot of cash” above all, as Saudi-backed withdrawal events continue to divide the game.
On the eve of the first LIV Golf Invitational Series event at the Centurion Club in Hertfordshire, McIlroy is preparing to defend the 2019 RBC Canadian Open before the coronavirus pandemic puts the tournament on hold. I did.
RBC has terminated the sponsorship of Dustin Johnson and Graeme McDowell for participation in the rival circuit. McIlroy was once again reluctant to criticize something like McDowell, a former Ryder Cup teammate, but repeated opposition to the project.
“I think my stance on it was pretty clear from the beginning,” McIlroy said. “That’s not what I want to join. I’m certainly not going to knock someone. It’s their life, it’s their decision, and they can live it the way they want. I can do it.
“But for me, I want to play against the best players in the world on the PGA Tour. And for me, the decisions you make in your life purely for money are usually going in the right direction. Will not be.
“Obviously, money is a deciding factor in many things in this world, but if it’s purely for money, it never seems to go as you want.”
Asked for a personal example, McIlroy mentioned an early part of his career that would be guaranteed from more performance fees than he could win on the course.
“Where are the incentives to play well?” He added. “I felt flat. Everyone knows why everyone is playing in London this week. It’s a lot of cash, there’s money in advance, and I got it. Some For those of you, I fully understand it.
“I think they’re thinking in the very short term. Some of these guys are younger than me and have their entire career in front of them. That’s something I can’t get.
“Everyone has to do the right thing for themselves. Not only do they follow all the dramas on Twitter, but they are happy with what they are doing and playing in golf tournaments. “
McIlroy dispelled criticism from LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman for being “brained” to support the PGA Tour, despite Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter, Sergio Garcia and others participating in the Ryder Cup. I hope I can continue with the Ryder Cup. Withdrawal circuit.
“Yes, I think they should be able to do it,” he added. “They are such a part of the Ryder Cup, and look at the history Poults has in the Ryder Cup.
“It’s a shame he won’t be involved anymore.
“It’s difficult because they’re playing against the tour, but I think everyone needs to get into the room and understand it.
“Professional games feel like they’re on a great track, with everything becoming more cohesive and now breaking again. I don’t think that’s a good thing.”
