Good business’ for PGA Tour if LIV players return – McIlroy

Rory McIlroy has stated that allowing golfers who defected to LIV Golf to return to the PGA Tour would be good business for the organization. The six-time major winner and Masters champion made these comments on May 9, 2026, amid growing uncertainty regarding the financial future of the breakaway series.

The discussion follows an announcement in April 2026 by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) that it intends to withdraw its multibillion-dollar backing of LIV Golf by the end of the year. In response to the loss of funding, LIV Golf announced a strategic evolution that includes the establishment of an independent board as the series attempts to secure replacement financial investors.

McIlroy, who has been a prominent critic of the LIV series, questioned the likelihood of the organization finding new financial support.

When one of the wealthiest sovereign wealth funds in the world thinks that you’re too expensive for them, that sort of says something.

Rory McIlroy

The potential collapse or restructuring of LIV Golf has led some players to consider their options. Prior to May 9, 2026, Bryson DeChambeau indicated that if the series does not survive, he intends to focus on growing his YouTube channel and will only participate in tournaments that want him.

McIlroy noted that while it remains a question whether the defecting players actually wish to return, the traditional tours should be receptive to such a move. He cited PGA Tour chief executive Brian Rolapp, noting that Rolapp has expressed openness to anything that makes the PGA Tour or the DP World Tour stronger.

McIlroy characterized this openness to the return of players as just good business practice.

Despite his willingness to see players return, McIlroy clarified that he does not believe LIV Golf is necessarily going to disappear. He also declined to rehash his long-standing views on the series and its place in the game of golf, stating that his positions are already well known.

These remarks were shared following the second round of the Truist Championship. McIlroy remains in contention in the tournament after carding a four-under round of 67, leaving him four shots off the lead.