Rory McIlroy aims subtle, X-rated LIV Golf dig after missing out on Olympic medal
Rory McIlroy has highlighted the Olympics and the Ryder Cup as the “purest form of competition in our sport” following the disruptions caused by LIV Golf. Since the emergence of the Saudi-backed league in 2022, golf has been divided, and McIlroy, currently ranked world No. 3, is involved in negotiations to broker a resolution. Although he did not compete in the Rio Olympics in 2016, McIlroy, who had previously dismissed the Ryder Cup as “an exhibition event” in 2009, has since become a proponent of both events.
Reflecting on his experience, McIlroy described the Ryder Cup as one of the best individual competitions he has participated in. He emphasized that, unlike regular tournaments where players compete for prize money, these events are about national pride and unity. Observing the enthusiastic crowds at Le Golf National, he noted that such a vibrant atmosphere is unique to these events, similar only to the Ryder Cup.
McIlroy admitted that his perception of the Olympics changed after his participation in Tokyo 2021. Initially skeptical, he left with a newfound appreciation for the event. Despite a challenging final round in which he fell short of a medal, McIlroy reflected on his performance with mixed feelings, acknowledging a costly mistake on the 15th hole that affected his chances.
As McIlroy approaches a decade without a Major victory, he expressed a desire to transition from being golf’s “Nearly Man” to a winner, emphasizing his focus on converting near misses into triumphs.
