Despite four tournament wins in 2024, golf superstar Rory McIlroy’s performance falls short of expectations. This analysis delves into his strengths, weaknesses, mental game, and what needs to change for him to conquer his major championship drought and reclaim the world’s number one spot.
Following Rory McIlroy’s Race to Dubai victory, ten additional golfers celebrated securing PGA Tour cards for 2025, granting them dual membership and access to both European and American circuits. This article profiles each golfer, highlighting their exceptional 2024 seasons.
Rory McIlroy launched his bid for a third consecutive Race to Dubai title with a strong opening round at the DP World Tour Championship. The Northern Irishman sits tied for the lead alongside Tyrrell Hatton, setting the stage for an exciting week in Dubai.
The 152nd British Open has begun at Royal Troon, with American Justin Leonard striking the opening tee shot. Defending US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau and world number two Rory McIlroy are among the notable players teeing off later in the day.
Rory McIlroy’s victory at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans alongside Shane Lowry marks his 25th PGA Tour title and a potential resurgence in his form. Despite a slow start to his PGA Tour campaign, McIlroy’s recent success could reignite his confidence and lead to a strong performance in upcoming major tournaments, including the PGA Championship and The Open. Former DP World Tour player Richard McEvoy believes this win will give McIlroy a much-needed boost, while Sky Sports’ Richard Kaufman acknowledges the challenges of maintaining a relaxed mindset in major tournament play.
Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry emerged triumphant in a dramatic play-off to secure the Zurich Classic of New Orleans title. After a captivating fourth round, Lowry’s exceptional chip onto the 18th green, followed by McIlroy’s birdie putt, propelled the pair into a tie with Martin Trainer and Chad Ramey at 25 under par. In the subsequent play-off, Trainer and Ramey faltered, giving McIlroy and Lowry the advantage. Despite Lowry’s missed birdie putt, Trainer’s narrow par putt miss sealed the victory for the Irish duo. McIlroy’s triumph marks his 25th PGA Tour win, while he and Lowry expressed their intention to defend their title next year.
Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry remain in contention for victory at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, sitting just two shots behind the leaders Patrick Fishburn and Zac Blair heading into the final round. The Irish duo fired a blemish-free eight-under 64 in Saturday’s best-ball format, moving to a total of 21-under par and sharing third position at TPC Louisiana. Fishburn and Blair set the pace with a 12-under 60, just one stroke shy of the tournament-record 59. Luke List and Henrik Norlander are one stroke adrift, while Ryan Brehm and Mark Hubbard join McIlroy and Lowry a further shot back.
Rory McIlroy has taken a sarcastic swipe at the level of greed in professional golf after the PGA Tour’s equity payouts were revealed. The Northern Irishman is set to receive a $50 million loyalty bonus, but questioned whether it would ever be enough. McIlroy, a vocal critic of LIV Golf, is determined to bring golf back together and focus on providing a better product for fans.
Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy are reportedly set to receive substantial bonuses for their loyalty to the PGA Tour, amid rumors of defections to the rival LIV Golf series. According to reports, Woods could receive up to £80 million, while McIlroy could get up to £40 million. The bonuses are part of a £1.2 billion investment by Strategic Sports Group into PGA Tour Enterprises. Around two-thirds of the investment will be distributed as equity to 193 golfers, with Woods and McIlroy among the top earners. The bonuses will be based on factors such as career points, Player Impact Program performance, and years of service. Woods and McIlroy have been key figures in the PGA Tour’s success, with Woods having won 82 Tour titles and McIlroy having won three FedEx Cups. Other top players such as Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas are also expected to receive significant bonuses.
In an effort to deter defections to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League, the PGA Tour will distribute up to $3 billion in bonuses to nearly 200 players. Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy will receive the largest payouts, with Woods receiving up to $100 million in equity. The bonuses are based on a formula that considers career success and cultural popularity. The PGA Tour will also award $100 million in equity to notable retired players and provide $100 million in recurring grants to future players starting in 2025. The bonuses are a way to express gratitude for the players’ loyalty and to ensure the PGA Tour remains the premier golf league.
