[Golf Topic] McIlroy's 'Bitter Words'... "If World Ranking Is That Important, Come to the US~"

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] ○…World No.1 Rory McIlroy (Northern Ireland, photo) reportedly delivered some harsh words to European players...

On the 19th (Korean time), immediately after the first round of the PGA Tour RBC Heritage (total prize money $7.1 million) held at Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head, South Carolina, USA (par 71, 7,099 yards), he declared, "If the world ranking is that important, come over to the U.S. and compete." This was in response to European players complaining that the recent restart of world ranking points was disadvantageous due to the European Tour 'shutdown' this season.

In fact, most English players such as Tommy Fleetwood and Lee Westwood saw their rankings drop. However, McIlroy added, "You can participate in the PGA Tour after a '2-week self-quarantine.' I did the same." He acknowledged, "I understand that there are complicated issues like family," but explained, "Still, for world stars who can afford to rent a nice house in the U.S., it's not that difficult."

It is interesting that McIlroy declared participation in three consecutive weeks starting from the Charles Schwab Challenge, which ended on the 15th, this tournament, and the Travelers Championship (total prize money $7.4 million) on the 25th. His caddie, Harry Diamond, who lives in Belfast, Northern Ireland, also entered the U.S. early on the 24th of last month, considering the '2-week self-quarantine.' McIlroy made headlines off the course by rushing to arrange a guesthouse for his caddie and providing full support.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.