Rory McIlroy has revealed that no matter how the golf landscape continues to evolve, there are two tournaments he will never skip — even if it means stepping away from the PGA Tour’s schedule.
The four-time major champion, known for his outspoken stance on golf’s current divide between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, made the declaration during a recent press conference where he reaffirmed his priorities as both a player and a competitor.
“I’ve always said there are a couple of events that mean more to me than anything else,” McIlroy said. “They’re part of who I am and what shaped me as a golfer. I’ll play them as long as I can swing a club.”
While McIlroy didn’t shy away from discussing his commitment to major championships, he singled out The Irish Openand The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship as the two events he holds closest to his heart.
Both tournaments carry deep personal meaning for the Northern Irishman. The Irish Open, in particular, connects McIlroy to his roots and the fans who’ve supported him since his amateur days. Meanwhile, the Dunhill Links — played across iconic Scottish courses including St Andrews — represents the essence of traditional golf that McIlroy continues to cherish.
“I grew up watching those tournaments and dreaming of playing in them,” he added. “No matter what’s happening in the sport, those weeks are special. They remind me why I fell in love with the game.”
McIlroy’s comments come at a time when the PGA Tour continues to face questions about its future, particularly amid the ongoing negotiations with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). Yet, despite his deep history with the PGA Tour, McIlroy’s remarks make it clear that sentiment and legacy still hold more weight than money or politics.
The 36-year-old remains one of the few players to consistently balance his loyalty between global golf tours, prioritizing the tournaments that have emotional and historical significance over financial incentives.
As the sport continues to shift, McIlroy’s commitment to heritage events serves as a reminder of what many fans believe golf should still represent — passion, history, and respect for the game’s roots.
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