PGA Tour star who made misconstrued Rory McIlroy comment is making career switch

The PGA Star Eyeing a Surprising Career Change After Misinterpreted Rory McIlroy Comment

Michael Block became a household name during last year’s PGA Championship when he played alongside the golfing titan Rory McIlroy. The American club professional’s impressive performance at Oak Hill Country Club, especially his jaw-dropping slam-dunk hole-in-one on the par-three 15th, secured his place in golf history. But now, Block is setting his sights on a new challenge that might surprise many fans: a transition to senior golf and a spot on the PGA Tour Champions.

From PGA Championship Hero to Senior Golf Aspirant

Block’s rise to fame was nothing short of spectacular. His tie for 15th place at the PGA Championship was a testament to his skill and determination. Competing against seasoned pros, Block held his own and even managed to outshine many of them with his memorable ace. This feat not only elevated his status but also earned him a plethora of invitations to PGA Tour events, including a return to the PGA Championship this past May.

However, at 48 years old, Block is finding it increasingly difficult to keep pace with the younger generation of golfers. In a candid interview with Bunkered, he expressed his admiration for the current crop of stars and their impressive scores, while also acknowledging the physical toll it takes to compete at their level. “The kids now are so good and the scores they’re shooting out there are unbelievable. These young kids are unreal, and I want nothing to do with them,” Block admitted.

The Champions Tour Beckons

With the physical demands of the PGA Tour becoming more challenging, Block has set his sights on the Champions Tour, a circuit for senior golfers. “I’d consider the Champions Tour in about a year-and-a-half,” he revealed. “At age 49 I can start to qualify, and then the day I turn 50 I can play.” This transition is not just a professional decision but a personal one as well. “My wife pretty much has an ultimatum that I have to do it,” he added, hinting at the familial support behind his decision.

Block’s plan is to give the Champions Tour a serious go for five years, with a view to retiring at 55. “I’m more than happy to play the occasional events and the majors, I love what I do, but I have my eyes set on the Champions Tour,” he explained.

The Controversial Comment on Rory McIlroy

Block’s journey to fame has not been without its bumps. One notable incident involved comments he made about Rory McIlroy that were widely misinterpreted. Following his success at the PGA Championship, Block appeared on the RipperMagoo Podcast, where he seemed to suggest that he could be one of the best players in the world if he had McIlroy’s driving distance.

“He’s a lot longer than I am, that’s what it is. What I would shoot from where Rory hits it would be stupid, I think I’d be one of the best players in the world, hands down,” Block said. He went on to praise his own short game, stating, “If I had that stupid length, all day, my iron game, wedge game, around the greens and my putting is world class.”

These comments quickly garnered attention and sparked controversy. Many interpreted them as Block claiming he could rival McIlroy if only he had the same distance off the tee. However, Block later clarified his statements in an interview with Golf Monthly, emphasizing that his remarks were taken out of context.

“It was totally misconstrued, misconceived, the whole thing. I really feel like if you’re a real golfer, you kind of understood what I had meant,” Block explained. “If I gained 60 yards, if I had a gap wedge into every green rather than a four iron into every green, would I be better? I’d be a whole hell of a lot better. Would I be better than Rory McIlroy? Absolutely not. Rory is an absolute stud and at no point, in any shape or form, was I ever trying to say anything about Rory or the tour professionals.”

Block took full responsibility for the misunderstanding, admitting, “I said it the wrong way. I did a couple of thousand interviews [after the tournament] but I guess I did say one thing wrong but it’s okay.”

Looking Ahead: Block’s Future in Senior Golf

As Block prepares for his transition to senior golf, he remains focused on his current endeavors and his love for the game. His journey from a club professional to a fan favorite at the PGA Championship and now a prospective senior golfer is a testament to his dedication and passion for golf.

While the road ahead may be challenging, Block’s resolve is unwavering. With the support of his family and a clear vision for his future, he is ready to embark on this new chapter of his career. Whether he will find the same success on the Champions Tour remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Michael Block’s story is far from over, and golf fans will be eagerly watching his next move.