Six-time major champion Rory McIlroy has stated that individuals associated with LIV Golf expressed an intention to "destroy the European Tour" at the 2026 Masters, a few months prior to the league seeking bankruptcy protection. McIlroy, a prominent critic of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf, noted that this ambition was voiced even as the tour faced financial difficulties.
In comments made to the Scotsman, DP World Tour CEO Guy Kinnings reportedly said LIV had a stated aim to "destroy the DP World Tour." McIlroy corroborated this, adding that such declarations were made at Augusta National earlier this year. "They took players; they took sponsors; they turned professional golf into an arms race," McIlroy said at the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship, referencing the breakaway tour's impact.
LIV Golf's substantial backing from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) diminished, leading the league to file for bankruptcy protection. While potential financing from BC Partners Credit could lead to a restructured LIV 2.0, prominent players like Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia have already departed.
McIlroy reflected on the period, calling it "very strange" and suggesting it granted players significant leverage over the tours, which he does not believe is beneficial for the overall health of professional golf. He advocated for a "reset" to ensure more sustainable practices within the sport, arguing that the "arms race" created a "false economy."
Currently competing in the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship, McIlroy is aiming to win the Race to Dubai for a record-equalling eighth time. He enters the penultimate event of the season third in the standings and believes strong performances in the remaining tournaments can still put him in contention for the title.