13 C
Manchester
Saturday, June 7, 2025
Other SportsMcIlroy resigns from PGA Tour policy board as PIF talks continue

McIlroy resigns from PGA Tour policy board as PIF talks continue

Rory McIlroy has resigned from the PGA Tour’s policy board, with the circuit still locked in negotiations over a potential partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).

McIlroy earned a reputation as a staunch defender of the PGA Tour after the foundation of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit, which enticed household names including Phil Mickelson, Cameron Smith, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka to its rival events with huge financial rewards.

After months of tensions and legal battles, the tours surprisingly announced an intention to merge in June, with the new unified entity to be backed by the financial muscle of the PIF.

McIlroy said he was made to feel like a “sacrificial lamb” after being kept in the dark over the potential deal, adding he still “hated” LIV Golf.

In a memo issued to players on Tuesday, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said the circuit was continuing to work towards a definitive agreement on the merger, saying “deliberate” progress had been made.

McIlroy, who joined the board as a player director in 2022, gave no indication that he was about to resign while speaking to reporters ahead of the DP World Tour Championship on Tuesday, announcing his exit in a letter to the board later that day.

In a statement, Monahan and board chairman Ed Herlihy thanked the four-time major champion for his efforts, saying: “Rory’s insight has been instrumental in helping shape the success of the tour, and his willingness to thoughtfully voice his opinions has been especially impactful.

“Given the extraordinary time and effort that Rory – and all of his fellow player directors – have invested in the tour during this unprecedented, transformational period in our history, we certainly understand and respect his decision to step down in order to focus on his game and his family.”

McIlroy had been reluctant to comment on the merger negotiations in the aftermath of June’s announcement, saying he had been forced to come to terms with Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning presence in multiple sports.

The deadline for the tour to finalise a deal with the PIF is December 31, though that date could be pushed back amid reports it is unlikely to be met.

Harry Carr
Harry Carr
Harry is a freelance sports journalist with experience of working for the Racing Post, Stats Perform, Opta Analyst and more, covering major events across all sports but holding a particular love for the beautiful game.
Latest

Bouquet basics for Dad: Flower expert shares how to make those Father’s Day blooms last

A flower expert has revealed his top tips for dads to look after their blooms if they receive them for Father’s Day. Colourful bouquets and...

The Kim Jong Un Billboard That’s Shaking Up Manchester’s Fashion Scene

An eye-catching new billboard in Manchester featuring North Korea’s leader is challenging norms—and turning sustainable fashion on its head. A giant image of Kim Jong...

Heat Engineer Software Limited receives significant investment from Greenarc

Heat Engineer Software, the Lancashire based company at the forefront of heat loss calculations and the sizing of both renewable and traditional heating equipment,...

Pioneering project to change way people travel in Britain

A pioneering project is set to transform how people explore and move across Britain and Ireland. Slow Ways, a non-profit Community Interest Company, has already...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

The Kim Jong Un Billboard That’s Shaking Up Manchester’s Fashion Scene

An eye-catching new billboard in Manchester featuring North Korea’s leader is challenging norms—and turning sustainable fashion on its head. A giant image of Kim Jong...

Heat Engineer Software Limited receives significant investment from Greenarc

Heat Engineer Software, the Lancashire based company at the forefront of heat loss calculations and the sizing of both renewable and traditional heating equipment,...

Pioneering project to change way people travel in Britain

A pioneering project is set to transform how people explore and move across Britain and Ireland. Slow Ways, a non-profit Community Interest Company, has already...

Bouquet basics for Dad: Flower expert shares how to make those Father’s Day blooms last

A flower expert has revealed his top tips for dads to look after their blooms if they receive them for Father’s Day. Colourful bouquets and...

More News

F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025: Report, result, highlights as Norris savours ‘stressful’ win

Lando Norris praised McLaren's "amazing car" after overcoming unpredictable conditions to beat reigning champion Max Verstappen and win the F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025...

India vs Australia: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India vs Australia: The State of Play India will be targeting a third consecutive appearance in the final when they face Australia in the first...

New Zealand vs India: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

New Zealand vs India: The State of Play Two teams in excellent form meet on Sunday when New Zealand and India collide in their final...