Rory McIlroy has defended the partnership between the PGA and DP World Tours after outspoken criticism from LIV rebel Richard Bland.
Amendments to the PGA Tour format for 2024, including limited field events, were confirmed in recent days. Bland, a veteran of the DP World Tour who joined LIV last year, scoffed at the arrangements and made specific reference to the 10 players from Europe who qualify for PGA Tour cards each season. “How does this help the so called strategic alliance?” asked Bland. “The 10 players will have zero chance of getting in these limited field events.
Making their chances of keeping their playing rights very difficult. Just proves that the PGA Tour have no interest in this alliance.” McIlroy, speaking after a second round of 69 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, offered a contrasting viewpoint.
The Northern Irishman said focus should be placed on what is available to golfers on both sides of the Atlantic. McIlroy said: “I think everyone knows this is the place that you want to play golf, right.