Rory McIlroy shared that he had advised Tom McKibbin against joining LIV Golf, expressing concerns that his young protégé might not be ready for the full consequences of such a decision. McKibbin, 22, is reportedly set to join Jon Rahm's Legion XIII team on a multi-year contract when LIV Golf's new season begins in Saudi Arabia on February 6. This would see him replace Kieran Vincent, who was relegated, and join fellow golfers Tyrrell Hatton and Caleb Surratt on Rahm's team.
McIlroy revealed that McKibbin reached out to him a few months ago after receiving an offer from LIV Golf. The seasoned golfer told reporters at the Dubai Desert Classic that he urged McKibbin to reconsider, advising him to focus on his PGA Tour career. He emphasized that McKibbin had worked hard to earn his PGA Tour card, a significant achievement, and warned that the decision could lead to the loss of opportunities, such as competing in majors and earning a spot on the Ryder Cup team.
While McIlroy expressed personal disappointment at the prospect of McKibbin joining LIV Golf, he made it clear that he would not stand in his friend's way if it was the choice McKibbin felt was right for him. McIlroy acknowledged the sacrifices that McKibbin would be making, suggesting that LIV Golf might not offer enough benefits to justify giving up the potential opportunities on the PGA Tour.
McKibbin, a rising star in golf, earned his PGA Tour card by finishing among the top 10 players on the DP World Tour's Race to Dubai. He turned professional in 2021, with notable achievements including a victory at the Porsche European Open in 2023 and a runner-up finish at the Italian Open. Additionally, McKibbin has already qualified for the 2024 Open Championship at Royal Portrush.
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