Rory McIlroy, after a sharp 67 at the Truist Championship, slammed players who refuse to return to the PGA Tour. He said, “If you don’t want to play here, I think that says something about you,” underscoring a growing rift as the breakaway league faces uncertainty.

The Saudi‑backed PIF announced it will cut funding from LIV Golf at the end of the 2026 season, forcing the league to seek new investors. McIlroy noted that many players are still bound by contracts, making a full return to traditional tours difficult.

McIlroy, once a fierce critic, admits he was “too judgmental” and now welcomes any pathway that strengthens the DP World Tour. He added that the most competitive golfers should play where the best competition exists, hinting that a stronger DP World Tour would benefit the sport.

With LIV’s future in limbo and major tournaments set for 2026, McIlroy’s comments add pressure on players and organisers to resolve the split or risk fragmenting the professional golf landscape.