McIlroy says DeChambeau has few options to play competitive golf
The Northern Irishman noted that while DeChambeau brings attention, the path back to the majors is narrow following the collapse of LIV Golf 2.0.
By Simon Bennett ·
Rory McIlroy stated on Monday that Bryson DeChambeau faces limited choices if he intends to continue competing in professional golf. McIlroy made the remark while preparing for the DP World Tour Championship, where he seeks to match Colin Montgomerie’s record for most Race to Dubai titles.
The uncertainty surrounding DeChambeau stems from the failure of LIV Golf 2.0 to launch. Players who previously committed to that circuit are now seeking alternative venues. The DP World Tour has emerged as the primary destination for these athletes, particularly given the PGA Tour’s current policies on reinstatement.
Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton have already joined the DP World Tour. They are waiting to determine if a pathway back to the PGA Tour will open in 2027. DeChambeau holds status on the DP World Tour for the upcoming season thanks to his victory at the 2024 U.S. Open, though he has not confirmed a full schedule.
DeChambeau recently issued a brief statement confirming he will play in the Nedbank Golf Challenge in December. He said he would evaluate his situation for the following year after that event. McIlroy acknowledged that DeChambeau’s presence generates strong viewer interest, calling the attention a benefit for tournaments.
"I think a name like Bryson DeChambeau and everything he brings with him, good and bad, he brings eyeballs, which is a good thing for tournaments," McIlroy said. "And honestly, look, I'm certainly not in his shoes, and nor would I ever want to be, but it doesn't seem like he's got many options. You know, if he wants to play competitive golf, it doesn't seem like he's got many options."
DeChambeau has suggested his future schedule might consist solely of the four major championships, with the remainder of his time dedicated to his YouTube channel. The channel has passed 3 million subscribers. Since his last competitive appearance at LIV Golf Indianapolis in August, DeChambeau has published seven new videos. These include challenges with Gary Player and interactions with the Amish.
In early 2026, the PGA Tour targeted DeChambeau, Cameron Smith, Brooks Koepka, and Rahm through the Returning Member Program. This pathway offered a conditional return with financial penalties. Only Koepka accepted the offer, exiting his LIV Golf contract. DeChambeau’s relationship with the PGA Tour remains strained following the 2022 lawsuit filed by 11 LIV Golf members regarding suspensions and withheld Player Impact Program money. DeChambeau withdrew from that suit in 2023 but remained with LIV Golf for the past four years.
