REVEALED: Why Tiger Woods’ relationship with Rory McIlroy ‘has SOURED over recent months’
Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s once amicable relationship has reportedly soured in recent months, according to Golf Digest. Reports suggest that the rift stems from McIlroy’s potential return to the PGA Tour board, a move met with discomfort by some fellow golfers. Although Woods and McIlroy are said to maintain cordiality, they hold opposing views…
Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s once amicable relationship has reportedly soured in recent months, according to Golf Digest. Reports suggest that the rift stems from McIlroy’s potential return to the PGA Tour board, a move met with discomfort by some fellow golfers. Although Woods and McIlroy are said to maintain cordiality, they hold opposing views on the future direction of professional golf, contributing to the apparent fallout between them.
McIlroy’s withdrawal from the PGA Tour board last November seemed to be marked by complications, as revealed by the golfer himself. He disclosed that his attempt to replace Webb Simpson on the board was met with resistance from other members, making the process “complicated and messy.” McIlroy hinted at past grievances resurfacing during these discussions, suggesting that certain board members harbored discomfort with his potential reinstatement.
The reinstatement of McIlroy to the board was viewed as an opportunity to aid the PGA Tour’s negotiations with Saudi financial backers of LIV Golf. McIlroy had previously cited time constraints as the reason for stepping down from the board, especially amidst the PGA Tour’s efforts to finalize an agreement with the Public Investment Fund. However, despite his willingness to contribute, McIlroy’s return to the board proved to be a complex endeavor.
Webb Simpson, who initially offered to vacate his seat for McIlroy, now intends to fulfill his three-year term on the board. He praised McIlroy’s potential involvement, citing his global stature and fresh perspectives as assets to the board. Simpson lauded McIlroy’s past contributions, noting his innovative ideas for advancing the PGA Tour’s interests and engaging fans.
In light of these developments, the PGA Tour’s negotiations with Strategic Sports Group as a minority investor represent a significant step towards securing financial stability. While McIlroy’s return to the board may not have materialized as initially envisioned, both he and Woods, along with other stakeholders, will likely continue to navigate the evolving landscape of professional golf with their respective visions and priorities.