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Tom McKibbin is making the headlines as he comes close to joining LIV Golf, the Tour funded by Saudi Arabia. His decision did not cause positive reactions in the golf public, especially when we know that the 22-year-old comes from Northern Ireland, the country where the legendary Rory McIlroy grew up.
World No. 3 McIlroy also commented on rumors of Tom McKibbin leaving for LIV, stressing that he knew him since he was a kid. Tom often asked Rory for advice, just like this time, but McIlroy is not a big fan of LIV Golf.
"I've known Tom since he was 10, 11 years old and as soon as he soon as he got the offer he rang me. I'd just landed in New Zealand and we had a really good conversation," Rory told BBC.
"I said to him, 'If I were in your shoes I would make a different choice to the one you're thinking of making'."
Rory reacts to McKibbins' move
Experienced Rory knows the consequences felt by golfers who left the PGA Tour for LIV Golf. Given that he knows McKibbin and his qualities, such a move could shatter his dreams.
As a boy, you fantasize about playing big tournaments, moving up the OWGR list and lifting trophies. However, will such a thing be a reality upon arrival at LIV Golf? Difficult... The controversial Tour is still not entitled to OWGR points, which is also the main obstacle for LIV Golfers to perform at the Majors.
"What he potentially is sacrificing and giving up with access to majors, potential Ryder Cup spot, depending on how he would play - I don't think anything's official yet... If I were in his position, which I think I have been before, and had his potential I wouldn't make that decision.
But I'm not him. I'm not in his shoes. He's a grown man at this point and can make his own decisions."
English (US)