Rory McIlroy has reacted to Patrick Reed's tee-throwing incident in Dubai by admitting: "I didn't even see it."
Reed - who is taking legal action against the PGA Tour and DP World Tour - attempted to make peace with McIlroy on Tuesday ahead of this week’s Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
World number one McIlroy appeared to ignore the American, who then allegedly flicked a tee in the Northern Ireland golfer's direction on the driving range, later admitting to reporters he did so in disgust.
Read more: Patrick Reed throws tee at Rory McIlroy in anger after alleged snub in Dubai
“I didn't see it,” McIlroy said of the incident. “I was down by my bag and he came up to me, and I was busy working and sort of doing my practice, and I didn't really feel like – I didn't feel the need to acknowledge him.
“So I didn't see a tee coming my direction at all, but apparently, that's what happened. And if roles were reversed and I'd have of thrown that tee at him, I'd be expecting a lawsuit from him.”
McIlroy added: “I didn't duck. I didn't see it, no. My back was turned to him.”
Former Masters champion Reed ditched the PGA Tour last year, earning millions by signing for the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series.
Despite being suspended from playing in PGA Tour events LIV Golf rebels, including Reed, can play in DP World Tour events ahead of an arbitration case in the UK next month which will decide if the Tour can suspend the rebels.
Last year Reed hit out at McIlroy who has spoken strongly against the rebels and their participation in Tour events.
McIlroy said that Reed shouldn't have been surprised by the reaction given what has happened in recent months.
“I mean, exactly, right,” McIlroy said. “Like that's – I mean, I got a subpoena on Christmas Eve. I mean, I don't see your – like, you can't pretend like nothing's happening, right.
“I think that's the thing. Like why – we are living in reality here. He's – no, so...”
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