Tom McKibbin of Northern Eire has spurned the recommendation from mentor Rory McIlroy by giving up a PGA Tour card to hitch the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League.
McKibbin, a 22-year-old who gained his solely European tour occasion in 2023, has signed to play with Jon Rahm and his Legions 13 group. LIV Golf begins its season subsequent week in Saudi Arabia.
Rahm confirmed the signing in an Instagram publish.
McKibbin, who grew up on the identical course as McIlroy, was the tenth and ultimate participant within the DP World Tour factors record to earn a PGA Tour card this 12 months.
McIlroy, talking earlier this month on the Dubai Desert Traditional, mentioned he informed McKibbin: “‘If I have been in your sneakers, I’d make a distinct alternative than the one you are making.’
“Working so exhausting to get your tour card within the States, to realize that purpose final 12 months was an enormous achievement. I feel what he probably is sacrificing and giving up with entry to majors, potential Ryder Cup spot relying on how he would play … if I have been in his place and I had his potential, which I feel I’ve been earlier than, I would not make that call.”
McKibbin, who’s No. 106 on this planet rating, joins a group that features Rahm, Tyrrell Hatton and Caleb Surratt.
He performed for Britain and Eire at first of the 12 months within the Staff Cup, unofficial matches for potential Ryder Cup gamers for Europe. McKibbin stays a European tour member, however he can have fewer alternatives to earn factors. He’s eligible just for the British Open this 12 months.
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