September 18th 2024.
Rory McIlroy is set to compete in this week's BMW PGA Championship, but he's also been discussing the future of the Ryder Cup. The golf pro recently revealed that he would have difficulty playing under certain European players who have joined the LIV Golf league. Many past Ryder Cup legends have left the DP World Tour to join the Saudi-backed breakaway circuit, which has caused some tension and uncertainty about their future involvement in the biennial match play tournament.
One such player, Ian Poulter, has openly expressed his desire to one day become Ryder Cup captain. He hopes that tensions will eventually ease and allow for players like himself to take on this prestigious role. However, McIlroy has shared his reservations about playing under certain LIV rebels in future editions of the Ryder Cup. Although he did not mention Poulter specifically, he made it clear that there are some players he would be okay with and others he would not be comfortable playing under.
When asked if a LIV Golfer could fulfill the duties of Ryder Cup captain, McIlroy had even more concerns. He explained that it's difficult to build a rapport with these players when they are rarely present at tournaments or events. He praised Luke Donald for his efforts to stay involved and interact with younger players, but he believes it's important for the captain to be around and show their support. With players like Poulter and Lee Westwood choosing to play in the LIV Golf league, it's challenging for the rising stars of the European Tour to establish a connection with them.
McIlroy clarified that he's not questioning Poulter's credentials as a potential Ryder Cup captain, but he believes that the current state of affairs makes it difficult for them to be the best candidates for the job. He emphasized the importance of being present and visible, and unfortunately, that's not something these players can do while they are committed to a different tour. McIlroy believes that the Ryder Cup captain should be someone who can be around and show their support, and right now, that just can't be someone who is elsewhere.
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