Although Rory McIlroy resigned from his position last year due to resistance from the PGA Tour Policy Board, the Northern Ireland star is eager for a more “cut-throat” strategy. In an effort to make the PGA Tour “more cutthroat,” Rory McIlroy has expressed his support for issuing fewer tour cards in order to make the competition more difficult and exclusive.
McIlroy has his sights set on the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship following his second-place finish at the BMW PGA Championship. The Northern Ireland golf ace compares LIV Golf’s smaller fields and guaranteed payouts to the idea of limiting the number of competitors in tournaments.
Last year, after players moved to LIV Golf, some format changes were implemented, and McIlroy resigned from his board position in spite of resistance from the PGA Tour Policy Board earlier in the year. Eight “designated” events this season had smaller fields, and there were fewer competitors at “legacy” events. McIlroy is a strong supporter of these changes, but he anticipates criticism for his support.
McIlroy responded, “No, I mean, I’m all for making it more cutthroat, more competitive.” “I know I’m not going to be very popular, but I support fewer players, fewer tour cards, and the best of the best.”
“I believe that when all of these iconic events were considered, we thought there should be no cut. However, if it’s significant enough, or significant enough to Jack (Nicklaus) and Tiger (Woods), and if it’s significant enough for Arnold Palmer, who is still alive, then ultimately, it’s their tournament, and they can do anything they want.”
“We’ll have a cut if it’s important enough to those guys, but I could have gone either way.” In 2025, signature events will consist of a minimal field of 72, with an alternate list to fill vacated spots. The yearly review suggested a uniform cut, but the board decided against implementing it.
There are ways to contribute to it. Trying to pit the best guys against the best looking guys, is that right? He had said before. “That, in my opinion, produces a really compelling product, but it also eliminates the need for you to wait a full year for an opportunity after your strong play. That opportunity shows up immediately.”
“You perform well for two or three weeks, participating in a specific event. If you continue to play well, you will remain in them, you know.”