Once Your Out, Your Out. No Way Back For Defectors

Rickie Fowler takes issue with Rory McIlroy’s plan to ‘welcome back’ LIV Golf defectors

This weekend marks the debut of LIV Golf, where PGA players Rickie Fowler and Rory McIlroy express differing views on the return of big-name players from the breakaway tour.

Fowler contends against a “direct road” back for LIV Golf defectors, while McIlroy deems punishing players as “harsh,” acknowledging that life involves choices. Despite being a vocal critic of the Saudi breakaway tour, McIlroy now sees the financial incentives that led some to leave, emphasizing the importance of understanding and unity in the golfing community.

In contrast, Fowler argues that those who left for LIV should not have an easy route back to the PGA TOUR, advocating for consequences to their decisions. He states, “I don’t think there’s a straight path back to the Tour,” emphasizing the need for a solution irrespective of the decision’s magnitude.

Jordan Spieth, who succeeded McIlroy on the policy board, notes the diversity of players’ opinions on the matter. While some align with McIlroy’s perspective, others hold contrary views, reflecting the complexity of the situation.

The LIV Golf season, scheduled to commence at Mayakoba, faces potential postponement due to a food poisoning outbreak affecting at least 20 players and caddies. The situation adds an unexpected twist to the anticipated start of the season, highlighting the challenges faced by the golfing community.