In a significant shift in position, Rory McIlroy, once an outspoken critic of the LIV Golf breakaway, now expresses openness to play with the Saudi-funded circuit under certain conditions. At the very least, he’s hoping the players and the two leagues can come together, because it’s the best thing for professional golf.

The world No. 2 revealed on the “Stick to Football” podcast that he would consider participating in LIV Golf if it transformed into the “IPL of golf” – referring to the successful Indian Premier League model. That would be a middle-ground where it’s not about the Saudi’s taking over the entire sport and running the PGA Tour out of town.

McIlroy, who had been a vocal opponent of LIV Golf’s “guaranteed money” structure, now acknowledges the complexity of decisions made by fellow players and recognizes that not everyone is in a position similar to his or Tiger Woods’. This marks a significant departure from his previous stance, where he declared in July, “If LIV was the last place to play on earth I’d retire.”

The PGA Tour is currently in talks with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the same entity backing LIV Golf. As Jon Rahm makes a move to LIV — with a rumored offer in excess of $500 million –, McIlroy’s softened stance may contribute to ongoing negotiations, especially as the PGA Tour explores a potential merger with the Saudi sovereign wealth fund. He noted that the PGA Tour simply can’t contend with that kind of money.

Would Rory McIlroy Actually Join LIV?

McIlroy, a key figure in initiating discussions between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, mentioned meeting Yasser Al-Rumayyan, the LIV chairman and PIF governor, in Dubai in 2022. This meeting paved the way for understanding the goals of LIV and exploring potential collaborations. McIlroy’s involvement in these talks, despite his subsequent departure from the PGA Tour’s policy board, showcases his commitment to fostering dialogue between the opposing factions. The question is, how far would he go?

McIlroy emphasized the need to address flaws exposed by the Saudi-backed disruption. He also admitted he’s never received an official offer from the new golf brand. While McIlroy admits a shift in perspective over the past two years, he remains pragmatic about the inevitability of LIV Golf becoming an integral part of the sport. He wants what’s best for the game.

If he were to join, it would be the biggest shakeup in golf to date.

Next: Ludvig Aberg Cites “Red Flags”, Choosing PGA Tour Over LIV Golf