Rory McIlroy acknowledged that Bryson DeChambeau's return to professional golf could draw significant attention, even to tours where he might compete. The comments come as DeChambeau navigates his future following the bankruptcy filing of LIV Golf.
McIlroy, who has previously expressed criticism of DeChambeau's on-course behavior, offered a more pragmatic view in Dubai. "I think a name like Bryson DeChambeau and everything he brings with him, good and bad, he brings eyeballs, which is a good thing for tournaments," McIlroy stated at the season-ending DP World Tour Championship. He added, "And honestly — look, I’m certainly not in his shoes, and nor would I ever want to be — but it doesn’t seem like he’s got many options. If he wants to play competitive golf, it doesn’t seem like he’s got many options."
DeChambeau, the winner of the 2026 U.S. Open, is exploring his options after LIV Golf filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The PGA Tour typically imposes a one-year ban on players who joined LIV Golf, though other disciplinary measures could extend this. DeChambeau also has the option to join the European tour, potentially through his major championship exemptions, such as his U.S. Open victory.
He has already committed to play in the Nedbank Golf Challenge in South Africa, a European tour co-sanctioned event. DeChambeau has until Sunday to decide if he wants to become a member of the European tour. McIlroy suggested that DeChambeau's "performative" nature could be a valuable asset to the European tour.
In a social media post, DeChambeau expressed no regrets about his time with LIV Golf and spoke of humility and respect for the sport's history. He referenced Arnold Palmer's philosophy that no single player is bigger than the game, indicating a potential shift in his public demeanor. DeChambeau also suggested that team golf still has a place, even without his LIV team, the Crushers.
DeChambeau's past major championship performances have remained strong despite the LIV Golf schedule. He finished as runner-up in the 2024 PGA Championship and contended in the 2025 Masters. His last Ryder Cup appearance in 2025 saw him win one of five matches, though he did make a significant comeback in his singles match.