Rory McIlroy’s got plenty on his mind heading into this week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill. Fresh off his win at Pebble Beach, the four-time major champion opened up about everything from golf’s ongoing drama to some major changes in his bag.
The 35-year-old isn’t convinced the PGA Tour needs to strike a deal with LIV Golf and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund.
“I don’t think the PGA Tour needs a deal,” McIlroy said bluntly. “The momentum is pretty strong right now.”
He’s noticed the recent meetings between Tour officials, Saudi representatives, and even former President Trump. But McIlroy’s not holding his breath for a quick resolution.
“It takes two to tango,” he said. “If one party is willing and ready and the other isn’t, it makes it tough.”
Golf fans are in for a treat this week at Bay Hill. The Tour’s cutting back on commercials to show more player-caddie conversations on broadcast. McIlroy’s all for it.
“It’s great for the core golf fan,” he said. “They want to hear the strategy, they want to hear how we’re thinking through shots.”
Speaking of equipment, McIlroy’s made some big changes lately. After switching golf balls before his Pebble Beach win, he’s tweaked his entire bag setup. He’s adjusted his wedges, changed his woods, and is even trying out TaylorMade’s new Qi35 driver this week.
The Masters is coming up fast – it’ll be McIlroy’s 17th shot at completing the career Grand Slam. He’s thinking about adding another tournament before Augusta, not loving the idea of a three-week break beforehand.
“I may add Houston or San Antonio,” he revealed. “I’ll see how these next two weeks go first.”
On the topic of the Tour Championship’s possible format change, McIlroy’s skeptical about switching to match play for the season finale.
“We play stroke play all year,” he pointed out. “I don’t know if that’s the best way to crown a season-long champion.”
His TGL team might’ve gone winless this season, but McIlroy’s still upbeat about the new tech-focused league he started with Tiger Woods.
“Everyone seems to be having fun out there,” he said. “The player buy-in has been really encouraging.”
