All the while, McIlroy will attempt to win a fifth career major after a 10-year drought filled with close calls. Recently, he has had second-place finishes at the past two U.S. Opens and one runner up at the 2022 Masters. There was also a heartbreaking third place behind winner Cam Smith at the 150th Open at St. Andrews.

Northern Ireland's Tom McKibbin consulted the world No. 3, who advised him to accept the PGA Tour card but the 22-year-old appears to be going to the rival circuit.

Rory McIlroy said he advised good friend and fellow countryman Tom McKibbin against bolting for LIV Golf because he didn’t believe the sacrifice, at this stage of his career, was worth it.