By Salma El-Sakka
Rory McIlroy believes men's professional golf can now undergo a "reset" after LIV Golf's attempt to "destroy" the DP World Tour ended in Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The Northern Irishman, speaking ahead of the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship, said the breakaway circuit created a "false economy" that was never sustainable.
LIV Golf's bankruptcy and relaunch plans
LIV Golf is attempting to relaunch in 2027 with new funding from BC Partners Capital after Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund withdrew its support following a reported $5 billion investment over four years. The bankruptcy filing has forced the cancellation of all existing player contracts, with the expectation that players will re-sign on new terms for a revamped LIV 2.0.
Players leave LIV, contracts cancelled
Jon Rahm has already been released, relinquishing claims against the bankruptcy estate reported to be worth up to $150 million. Sergio Garcia, Ian Poulter, Tyrrell Hatton, Louis Oosthuizen and Lee Westwood have also confirmed they will not return.
McIlroy supports DP World Tour stance
DP World Tour chief executive Guy Kinnings said LIV's aim had been to destroy the tour and warned that any players seeking to return would have to prove themselves within the existing system. McIlroy endorsed that position, saying LIV took players and sponsors, turned golf into an arms race, and left the Asian Tour "high and dry" after a brief partnership.
Long-term sustainability focus
"For long-term sustainability for men's professional golf, I think we are in a much better spot," McIlroy said. He argued that a reset toward sustainable business practices is necessary if tours are to survive for the next 50 years, dismissing concerns about reduced player earnings as short-term thinking.
No safety concerns for Abu Dhabi event
Despite some players expressing reservations about the season-ending tournament in the United Arab Emirates due to regional unrest, McIlroy said he trusts the DP World Tour's coordination with local authorities and has no personal concerns about safety.
Guardiola appears in pro-am
Former Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola participated in Wednesday's pro-am event, playing alongside England's Tommy Fleetwood.
