Rory McIlroy has signaled a major shift in his stance on LIV Golf, saying he is now open to welcoming players who left for the rival league back to the PGA Tour. The five-time major champion, once one of LIV Golf’s strongest critics, believes returning players have already faced significant consequences for their decision.
Speaking on “The Overlap” podcast, McIlroy acknowledged that while LIV golfers earned massive financial rewards, they also paid a heavy price in reputation and professional standing.
“They’ve made the money, but they’ve paid their consequence in terms of reputation and some of the things they’ve lost,” McIlroy said.
McIlroy Supports a Stronger, Unified PGA Tour
McIlroy emphasized that if allowing LIV players to return would strengthen the PGA Tour, he would support the idea. He specifically mentioned Bryson DeChambeau as an example, noting that the decision should ultimately be made collectively by PGA Tour members.
“If it made the overall tour stronger to have Bryson back and whoever else, I’d be okay with it,” he added.
Currently, PGA Tour policy requires former LIV golfers to wait one year after their final LIV event before becoming eligible to compete again. This rule was introduced after several high-profile players left for LIV’s lucrative contracts.
Brooks Koepka Could Test PGA Tour Return Policy
Five-time major winner Brooks Koepka could become the most prominent test case of the PGA Tour’s return rules. Koepka signed a reported $100 million deal with LIV Golf but announced on December 23 that he would leave the league early to prioritize family commitments.
If Koepka seeks a return to the PGA Tour, he may be required to wait until August to satisfy the one-year eligibility period.
Meanwhile, Laurie Canter—who last played on LIV in 2024—was expected to return to the PGA Tour after earning his card. However, he instead chose to rejoin LIV Golf, signing with the Majesticks for the 2026 season.
LIV Golf and OWGR Points Still Unresolved
LIV Golf recently switched from 54-hole events to traditional 72-hole formats in an effort to gain Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points, which are crucial for major championship qualification. OWGR chairman Trevor Immelman confirmed on December 30 that discussions regarding LIV’s eligibility are still ongoing.
McIlroy Condemns “Horrific” Fan Abuse at Ryder Cup
Beyond tour politics, McIlroy also addressed disturbing fan behavior during the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black. The World No. 2 golfer described the atmosphere as hostile and, at times, deeply unacceptable.
“I’ve played Ryder Cups before, but this was on another level,” McIlroy said. “The abuse toward my family crossed every line.”
He revealed that offensive remarks were directed at his wife and young daughter, calling the experience “horrific” and blaming a growing “mob mentality” among spectators.
Calls for Stronger Leadership from Ryder Cup Officials
McIlroy suggested that U.S. captain Keegan Bradley could have done more to calm the crowd during the event. While he acknowledged the importance of home-field advantage, he felt leadership should have intervened when fan behavior became excessive.
“There was an opportunity to calm things down and play the match in the right spirit,” McIlroy said.
Despite the hostile environment, Team Europe secured a dramatic 15-13 victory, with McIlroy playing a key role.
