Bryson DeChambeau on Rory McIlroy comments: "Egos got in the way"

Bryson DeChambeau passes verdict on Rory McIlroy's recent comments about the PGA Tour and LIV Golf.

15 Jan 2024

Bryson DeChambeau on Rory McIlroy comments: "Egos got in the way"

Bryson DeChambeau admits "egos got in the way" at the beginning of the divide in the professional game in light of hearing Rory McIlroy has softened his criticism of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League.

DeChambeau addressed McIlroy's recent comments during an interview with Sports Illustrated's Bob Harig over the weekend.

McIlroy admitted regret over how he has handled the PGA Tour's ongoing battle with LIV Golf.

The World No.2 said he hopes everyone can put their egos aside in 2024 and come together to create one big world Tour.

McIlroy said earlier this month:

"To me, what I hope LIV would turn into is kind of like the IPL of golf and they take two months in the calendar I'd be like, 'Yeah, that's sounds like fun', because then you are at least working within the ecosystem."

That is exactly what LIV Golf star DeChambeau would like to see, too.

DeChambeau told Sports Illustrated:

"Rory realizes the game has to come back together, as do all of us.

"I’ve said from day one I want the game to come back together. We need the game to come back together. Not just for ourselves to play against the best players. But for the fans to see us play against each other again, and for the game of golf to grow the way we know it can.

"I just wish people would have taken meetings in the beginning. It was always simple. Egos got in the way."

McIlroy stepped away from his role as a player director on the PGA Tour policy board at the end of 2023.

He believes that will stand him good stead as he attempts to complete the career grand slam at The Masters in April.

It will also give McIlroy greater time to spend with his family when he is not in competitive action.

The deadline for the framework agreement between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour and LIV Golf's bankrollers, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) has been pushed back to before The Masters.

There is plenty of debate as to whether the deal will even happen given the length of time it is taking to reach a decision.

Both Keith Pelley (DP World Tour) and Martin Slumbers (R&A) confirmed their resignations as CEOs last week.

Pelley will step away from his role in April, while Slumbers will continue until the end of the season.

McIlroy said it will take a bit more time to pass full judgement on Pelley's work at the DP World Tour.

What do you make of McIlroy's stance on the pro game in 2024? Can LIV Golf and the PGA Tour come together to build a world golf Tour, or will that never happen? Share your thoughts and comments over on the GolfMagic social media channels.

Take me to more golf news!