Rory McIlroy questioned why LIV Golf players would not want to return to the PGA Tour if they get the option, as doubts grow over LIV’s future funding.
McIlroy spoke at the Truist Championship at Quail Hollow on Friday, May 8, after reporters asked him about the latest LIV Golf debate. He said players’ willingness to return to traditional tours would depend on what happens to LIV.
“It’s a question if they do want to come back,” McIlroy said, according to the source report. He added that any move strengthening the PGA Tour or DP World Tour should remain open for discussion.
Rory McIlroy was asked five questions after his 4-under 67 on Friday, and three of them were related to LIV Golf and the news of recent weeks. Here's video of every answer and some of the best tidbits.
"When one of the wealthiest sovereign wealth funds in the world thinks that… pic.twitter.com/Kix5I1iERG
— Cameron Jourdan (@Cam_Jourdan) May 8, 2026McIlroy said PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp had backed moves that could improve the tour’s strength. The Northern Irish golfer described that approach as “good business practice.”
The 37-year-old also questioned LIV Golf’s long-term prospects, saying the league could still seek alternative investment. He said LIV’s cost structure raised questions, given that one of the world’s wealthiest sovereign wealth funds considered it too expensive.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund confirmed last month that it will stop funding LIV Golf at the end of this season, according to the source report. McIlroy said players who reject the PGA Tour option would send a message about their priorities.
