McIlroy, PGA Tour tee off on proposed ‘Super League Golf ’
Rory McIlroy returned to the site of his first PGA Tour victory and made it clear Wednesday that he is more interested in creating his place in history than chasing Saudibacked money in a proposed super league.
The topic occupying most of the chatter at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, N.C., ahead of the Wells Fargo Championship is renewed efforts by a “Super League Golf ” to attract top players for a concept of team golf played around the world for massive riches.
The Daily Telegraph in London reported the league is prepared to offer fees ranging from $30 million to $50 million to marquee players, including Dustin Johnson and Justin Rose, to join a circuit that would begin playing as early as September 2022.
McIlroy, who turned 32 on Tuesday, was the first player to publicly oppose the new league more than a year ago. He has been elected chairman of the Player Advisory Council, meaning he will be the first foreignborn player to join the PGA Tour’s board of directors.
On Tuesday night, PGA Tour players had a previously scheduled mandatory meeting with Commissioner Jay Monahan. According to several players, Monahan reiterated what he told players more than a year ago when the proposed super league made its first pitch: Players who join will be suspended from the PGA Tour and could be banned permanently.
McIlroy referenced the failed attempt to create a European Super League in soccer, in which 12 clubs were founding members. The backlash was so strong that nine clubs — including all six from England — announced they would withdraw.
“People can see it for what is, which is a money grab, which is fine if that’s what you’re playing golf for is to make as much money as possible,” McIlroy said. “Totally fine. Then go and do that if that’s what makes you happy. But I think the top players in the game — I’m just speaking my own personal beliefs — I’m playing this game to try to cement my place in history and my legacy and to win major championships and to win the biggest tournaments in the world.”