Rory McIlroy believes allowing LIV Golf players to return to the PGA Tour would be “good business” as doubts continue to grow over the future of the Saudi-backed breakaway circuit.
The four-time major champion made the comments after remaining in contention at the Truist Championship with a second-round score of four-under-par 67.
McIlroy currently sits four shots behind the lead heading into the weekend but much of the discussion surrounding him focused on the uncertain future of LIV Golf and whether players could soon return to traditional tours.
LIV Golf Facing Financial Uncertainty
The future of LIV Golf has come under intense scrutiny after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund announced it would end its multibillion-dollar backing at the conclusion of the 2026 season.
In response, LIV Golf confirmed plans for a “strategic evolution” that includes the creation of an independent board as organisers search for replacement investors.
McIlroy questioned the league’s long-term sustainability and suggested the loss of Saudi support sends a major signal.
“When one of the wealthiest sovereign wealth funds in the world thinks that you’re too expensive for them, that sort of says something,” McIlroy said.
Despite previously being one of LIV Golf’s strongest critics, the Northern Irishman now feels golf’s established tours should remain open to welcoming players back.
“If it is a scenario where they have the option to come back and play on the traditional tours, I think everyone should be open to that,” he explained.
“That’s just good business practice.”
DeChambeau Among Players Facing Questions
The debate intensified after Bryson DeChambeau recently admitted he could focus more on his YouTube content and only play selected tournaments if LIV Golf collapses.
DeChambeau joined LIV in 2022 but earlier this year rejected the opportunity to return to the PGA Tour through a returning member programme.
Meanwhile, Brooks Koepka accepted a route back to the PGA Tour, while Jon Rahm resolved issues with the DP World Tour to continue balancing LIV commitments.
England golfer Tyrrell Hatton is also among several players permitted to continue playing LIV events alongside DP World Tour appearances.
McIlroy Admits He Was ‘Too Judgemental’
McIlroy admitted he may have been overly critical of players who initially left for LIV Golf.
“I was probably too judgemental with the guys that went because I was seeing it from my point of view,” he said.
However, the 37-year-old still believes the PGA Tour remains the strongest competitive environment in world golf.
“If you want to be the most competitive golfer you can be, this is the place to be,” McIlroy added.
“And if you don’t want to play here, I think that says something about you.”
McIlroy Still Chasing Truist Title
Away from the LIV Golf debate, McIlroy remains firmly in contention at the Truist Championship after another consistent display.
The Masters champion will now look to close the gap on the leaders during the weekend as he continues his pursuit of another title in an impressive 2026 season.
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