Rory McIlroy: Four-time major winner advised Tom McKibbin against LIV switch
Rory McIlroy has revealed that he advised Tom McKibbin against switching to LIV Golf, adding that he has had “many conversations” with his fellow Northern Irishman on the topic.
McKibbin, 22, has been linked with a move to the Saudi-backed tour over the past week, although there has been no official confirmation that he has decided to give up the PGA Tour card he was awarded in November.
“I’ve known Tom since he was 10, 11 years old and he called me as soon as he got the job offer. I had just arrived in New Zealand and we had a great chat,” McIlroy said in his speech. A pre-race press conference ahead of Thursday’s defense of the Dubai Desert Classic title.
“I said to him, ‘If I were in your shoes, I would make different choices than you want to do’.”
McIlroy has known McKibbin since he was “10, 11 years old” and the 2023 European Open champion spoke of the regular help and support the four-times Grand Slam champion gave him as he tried to cope with the early stages of the game. suggestion. his golf career.
“He could be sacrificing and giving up a chance to get to the majors, a potential Ryder Cup berth depending on how he performs – I don’t think it’s anything official yet – and if I were in his position and had his potential, I Think I wouldn’t have made this decision if I’d had it before.
“But I’m not him. I can’t put myself in his shoes. He’s an adult now and can make his own decisions.”
McIlroy added that “I would personally be disappointed” if McKibbin did choose to switch to LIV.
“I’ve made it very clear that I’m not going to stop you from making the decisions you feel you need to make on your own.
“But at the same time, I just feel like he’s giving up a lot without really benefiting that much.”
