Is Rory McIlroy okay? Here’s what the PGA Tour boss had to say about his Travelers snub

In a show of solidarity, PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan has backed Rory McIlroy’s decision to take a three-week hiatus following his performance at the US Open. This support comes in the wake of the Northern Irish golfer’s earlier critique of his peers for not participating consistently in signature PGA Tour events.

McIlroy had previously suggested that top players needed to toughen up, criticizing them for skipping key tournaments. He implied that if he could play nearly every week, so should they. However, his comments have now come under scrutiny as McIlroy himself has opted out of playing in the Travelers Championship after missing the cut at the Masters and following his recent disappointment at the US Open.

This isn’t the first time McIlroy has faced criticism for not playing in designated events. After a missed cut at the Masters in 2023, he also skipped the RBC Heritage, another key tournament. His decision to take time off after his emotional setback at the US Open, choosing instead to return at the Scottish Open, has sparked mixed reactions.

Monahan expressed understanding and empathy towards McIlroy’s situation. In a recent press conference, when asked about McIlroy’s decision, Monahan confirmed that he had been in contact with McIlroy via text. “I’ve gone back and forth on texts with Rory,” Monahan said. “His statement reflects exactly what he’s feeling. Sometimes, at this level of play, you need to focus on what you need, and that’s what Rory is doing. It’s the right path for him.”

Monahan’s comments echoed those of golfer Xander Schauffele, who pointed out that the intense scrutiny on McIlroy makes his decisions even more challenging. The commissioner emphasized that while McIlroy’s absence would be felt at the Travelers Championship, the tournament would still be competitive and highly anticipated.

McIlroy’s situation has also garnered sympathy from his Ryder Cup teammate, Jon Rahm. Despite dealing with foot soreness, Rahm is competing in the LIV Golf Nashville event and has commented on the difficulty of McIlroy’s pivotal putt at the 18th hole of Pinehurst No. 2, suggesting that the challenge was underplayed by TV commentators. Rahm noted that had McIlroy aimed differently, his ball might have rolled off the green.

However, not everyone is sympathetic towards McIlroy. Hank Haney, former coach of Tiger Woods, suggested that McIlroy might have fared better with a stronger caddie. Haney’s comments have sparked a mixed reaction, with some supporting his view and others defending McIlroy.

As McIlroy takes time to regroup, the golf world awaits his return at the Scottish Open, hoping to see him bounce back from his recent setbacks.