Rory McIlroy, a staunch critic of LIV Golf, has consistently voiced his disapproval of the Saudi-backed league and its head, Greg Norman, over the past three years. Despite reportedly being offered nearly $1 billion to join LIV Golf, McIlroy has remained loyal to the PGA Tour. However, recent reports suggest that Tom McKibbin, a talented young golfer McIlroy has mentored since childhood, may be leaning toward accepting a lucrative deal from LIV Golf.
Rory McIlroy Reacts to McKibbin’s Potential Move
Tom McKibbin has been offered a reported $5 million, along with an annual guarantee, to join LIV Golf. McIlroy, having known McKibbin for over 12 years, expressed his disappointment, emphasizing that such a move might not be worth the sacrifices involved. While there’s no official confirmation of McKibbin’s decision, McIlroy shared insights from their recent conversations.
During the 2025 Hero Dubai Desert Classic, McIlroy revealed that McKibbin contacted him for guidance after receiving the offer. McIlroy acknowledged McKibbin’s potential and congratulated him on his achievements, particularly earning his PGA Tour card in the United States. However, McIlroy cautioned McKibbin about the risks of moving to LIV Golf, such as jeopardizing opportunities to play in major championships and the Ryder Cup if his performance in Europe faltered.
McIlroy noted that no final decision had been made, stating, “I don’t think anything is official yet.” He hinted that he would have been informed had McKibbin already made a definitive choice.
Could McIlroy Have Done More?
McIlroy’s relationship with McKibbin dates back to the latter’s childhood, as they hail from the same Northern Irish club. Despite McIlroy’s belief in McKibbin’s skills, some speculate that McIlroy’s inability to provide more opportunities on the PGA Tour may have influenced McKibbin’s consideration of LIV Golf.
Rory McIlroy has known Tom McKibbin since he was 10 years old. Now the 22 year old Northern Irishman from the same club as Rory is making a surprise move to the LIV Golf League.
Rory confirmed Tom’s potential move and offered his thoughts ahead of the Dubai Desert Classic:…
— Flushing It (@flushingitgolf) January 15, 2025
The launch of the TGL league, spearheaded by Tiger Woods and McIlroy, has garnered significant attention but has faced its share of criticism. One notable issue has been the inclusion of less prominent golfers. For instance, in a recent match, Kevin Kisner’s performance attracted mockery, leading to questions about his inclusion. Some suggest that McIlroy could have used this opportunity to recruit McKibbin to the TGL roster, offering him exposure and confidence to continue his PGA Tour journey. Such a move might have discouraged McKibbin from considering LIV Golf’s offer.
The Bigger Picture
While McIlroy has advised McKibbin to reconsider his potential move, the young golfer appears to be weighing the financial and career implications of joining LIV Golf. Whether McIlroy’s advice resonates with McKibbin or the allure of LIV Golf proves too strong remains to be seen.
The situation raises broader questions about the challenges traditional tours face in retaining emerging talent amid LIV Golf’s lucrative offers.