Rory McIlroy has decided not to return to the PGA Tour Players Board as initially anticipated, citing discomfort among some members regarding his potential reinstatement. Last month, it was reported that McIlroy would resume his role as a player director, replacing Webb Simpson who expressed his desire to resign pending McIlroy's return.
However, McIlroy confirmed this week that he will not be rejoining the board, stating that the situation had stirred up past issues and unease among certain board members. Despite the potential for McIlroy's reinstatement to aid in negotiations with the Saudi financial backers of LIV Golf, the process of his return proved to be complex.
In June, the PGA Tour had announced plans to form a new partnership with the DP World Tour and the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), with a deadline initially set for December 31, 2023. While the deal with PIF did not come to fruition, the PGA Tour secured Strategic Sports Group as a minority investor in a deal valued at up to $3 billion.
McIlroy expressed his willingness to assist in the negotiations but acknowledged the challenges in the process of his reappointment to the board. Despite the setback, he maintained a positive outlook, stating that there are no hard feelings and everyone will move forward from this development.
