There’s a possibility that Rory McIlroy, a key figure in the realm of professional golf, may return once more to board positions on the PGA Tour. The Guardian has been informed by those close to the matter that McIlroy’s potential roles as a director on both the PGA Tour’s policy board and PGA Tour Enterprises will be decided by a vote this week. This comes in light of Webb Simpson’s recent departure, coupled with his explicit wish for the golf star from Northern Ireland to replace him.
McIlroy’s unexpected resignation from the policy board of the PGA Tour last November was largely thought to be a decision to focus more on his on-field game. However, with the sport currently in a state of uncertainty due to the divergent operations of traditional tours and the newly arrived Saudi Arabian-backed LIV, a shift has occurred.
The professional golfer has always been vocal about the negative impact on the sport’s reputation and visibility caused by the divide with LIV. Recently, he was quoted saying that the game would greatly benefit from all parties working in conjunction. To that end, McIlroy (34), has expressed his readiness to step back into the administrative arena to make positive changes. He himself rejected rumours of a potential LIV offer last week, stating his lifelong commitment to the PGA Tour.
The supportive attitude of McIlroy, currently the world’s number two player, towards the PGA Tour’s decision making should be well received by its membership. Additional parties likely to appreciate his return comprise the DP World Tour, as well as Fenway Sports Group (FSG), which would gain a voice on the PGA Tour’s board. As an affiliate of the Strategic Sports Group (SSG), FSG had signed a commercial contract with the PGA Tour earlier this year. Additionally, McIlroy and Fenway already share links through TGL, a golf league set to inaugurate in 2025.
Rory McIlroy has established strong historical ties with Yasir al-Rumayyan, the governing body of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). The PIF is interested in aligning its interests with both the PGA Tour and SSG, although significant progress on this liaison is yet to be made. It is hoped that McIlroy could expedite this ongoing initiative.
Tiger Woods, Patrick Cantlay, and Jordan Spieth, who are fellow board members, will make a decision on McIlroy’s return. Opinions from Cantlay on this issue could raise eyebrows. After the Texan Spieth proposed that an alliance with the PIF was not necessary, this sparked a dialogue between him and McIlroy. A subsequent meeting was held by Al-Rumayyan with the PGA Tour board and SSG in the Bahamas.
For the forthcoming week, McIlroy has committed to playing at the Zurich Classic in New Orleans. – Guardian