Rory McIlroy Campaigns to Stop Tom McKibbin’s Jump to LIV Golf

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Hero Dubai Desert Classic Rory McIlroy and Tom McKibbin
Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy and Tom McKibbin during a practice round ahead of the 2023 Hero Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates GC on Jan 24, 2023 in Dubai, UAE. (Photo by David Cannon via Getty Images)

Rory McIlroy has openly expressed his disappointment regarding Tom McKibbin‘s potential move to LIV Golf, advising his Northern Ireland compatriot against making the switch.

McIlroy, who has mentored McKibbin since he was young, emphasized that the move would not be worth the sacrifice. He highlighted the significant financial opportunities still available on the PGA Tour and DP World Tour, suggesting that the benefits of joining LIV Golf do not outweigh what McKibbin stands to lose, including access to major championships and potential Ryder Cup spots.

“I really like Tom as a person, as a player,” said McIlroy, during a news conference ahead of the Dubai Desert Classic. “I think he’s got a ton of potential.

“Look, I said to him, if I were in your shoes, I would make a different choice than the one you’re thinking of making. I think, you know, working so hard to get your tour card in the States … to achieve that goal last year was a big achievement.

“I think what he potentially is sacrificing and giving up, with access to majors, potential Ryder Cup spot, depending on, you know, how he would play … if I were in his position and I had his potential, which I think I have been before, I wouldn’t make that decision.”

McIlroy’s advice was based on multiple conversations he had with McKibbin, where he shared his perspective on the matter, although he acknowledged that McKibbin is an adult capable of making his own decisions.

McKibbin has been notably coy about his stance on joining LIV Golf. His refusal to deny or confirm the rumors has fueled speculation that he might be on the brink of joining the upstart league, specifically Jon Rahm’s Legion XIII team, despite having secured a PGA Tour card for the 2025 season.

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