DP World Tour chief hails Rory McIlroy as Jon Rahm’s LIV Golf exit boosts hopes for 2027

DP World Tour chief executive Guy Kinnings has hailed Rory McIlroy as an “immense asset”, with Jon Rahm’s expected LIV Golf exit potentially providing a major boost to the European circuit ahead of 2027.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Kinnings praised McIlroy’s influence on the tour and his ability to promote golf around the world, describing the six-time major champion as an extraordinary ambassador.

His comments come at a crucial time for the DP World Tour, which could benefit significantly from an influx of former LIV players competing more regularly on the tour in 2027.

McIlroy, 37, arguably remains golf’s biggest active draw, and Kinnings believes the Northern Irishman offers far more than his performances on the course, helping raise the tour’s profile in international markets.

“Rory is an immense asset for us,” Kinnings told talkSPORT.

“I mean, he's not just the first European to win a grand slam, he is an extraordinary spokesman for the tour.”

Kinnings also recalled how McIlroy took his famous green jacket around the world following his 2025 Masters victory, which completed the career Grand Slam.

The Northern Irishman visited Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ireland, Australia and India, with Kinnings particularly struck by the sight of the World No. 2 alongside Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar.

“We're very lucky to have him and those other players who support us,” he added.

Jon Rahm’s LIV Golf exit could be huge for DP World Tour

McIlroy’s influence could become even more important as the DP World Tour looks to capitalise on a changing landscape in professional golf.

The circuit has faced a longstanding challenge in retaining its biggest names, with many of its best performers moving to the PGA Tour, while LIV Golf has attracted some of Europe’s most recognisable players, including Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton.

Although the DP World Tour continues to benefit from significant financial support through its strategic alliance with the PGA Tour, having the world's best players competing in its tournaments more regularly offers a different kind of value.

Rahm’s decision to leave LIV Golf this week could therefore prove hugely significant.

Under current rules, the Spaniard would face a 12-month suspension before returning to the PGA Tour. However, his DP World Tour membership will allow him to compete more regularly on the European circuit in 2027.

Sergio Garcia has also left LIV Golf and confirmed his intention to return to the DP World Tour, and also Luke Donald's Ryder Cup team too if he plays well. 

Adrian Meronk, who claimed his fifth DP World Tour title at St Andrews on Sunday, and rising Spanish star David Puig have also confirmed they will leave LIV Golf.

There is also speculation that Hatton and Joaquin Niemann could follow, potentially giving the DP World Tour access to even more established stars in 2027.

Bigger stars could bring bigger audiences

For Kinnings, the prospect of welcoming more leading players could strengthen the tour both on and off the course.

More regular appearances from the likes of Rahm, Hatton, Niemann and Garcia could attract greater interest from fans and broadcasters, while stronger fields may help boost television audiences and create new sponsorship opportunities.

Those commercial gains are not guaranteed, but the opportunity is clear.

The DP World Tour has enjoyed an encouraging autumn schedule, with the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth continuing to attract an impressive field alongside strong lineups at events including the Irish Open and Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.

The 2027 schedule is also set to feature 17 national opens, up from 13 in 2026, as the tour looks to expand its international reach.

Kinnings believes there is a significant opportunity to build on that momentum.

“For us right now, I have no idea what will happen with LIV, who knows?” he said.

“But as you've seen, a lot of the players seem to want to come play in our events.”

The DP World Tour chief also stressed the importance of working closely with PGA Tour chief executive Brian Rolapp to strengthen professional golf internationally.

“I personally don't think there's ever been a better opportunity to shine a light on how great golf is around the globe – amazing tournaments, amazing players, amazing golf courses,” Kinnings added.

McIlroy remains central to DP World Tour ambitions

McIlroy’s continued support gives the DP World Tour a major advantage as it looks to grow its audience and attract commercial partners. But the prospect of Rahm, Garcia and other leading European stars competing more regularly could provide another significant boost.

Even if the DP World Tour has only one season to capitalise before some of the biggest names return to the PGA Tour's new Championship Series in 2028, Kinnings and his team will be keen to make the most of it. With the Ryder Cup adding further intrigue to the 2027 season, the stage is set for a potentially pivotal year.

As Kinnings made clear, McIlroy, who returns to action in India next week, remains central to those ambitions. Combining his global star power with more regular appearances from Europe’s leading players could give the DP World Tour a golden opportunity to raise its profile and strengthen its position.